NEWS RELEASE WELLINGTON COUNTY OPP
(WELLINGTON COUNTY, ON) – Agriculture plays a significant role within Wellington County, and the Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) recognizes the unique risks associated with the industry. By staying informed and working together, we can help ensure our local farming operations remain safe and successful.
Injuries are often preventable – whether you’re working with livestock or operating machinery, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk of injury. Consider the following to help prevent injury:
- Provide safety training for all workers.
- Conduct routine equipment inspections to keep machinery in safe working condition.
- Maintain clear communication, especially when working alone, so others know your activities and location.
- Install Roll-Over Protective Structures (ROPS) on tractors and other equipment to help prevent serious injury in the event of a rollover.
- Take breaks. Fatigue decreases reaction time and increases risk.
Children and families on farms – Farms often serve as both homes and workplaces, creating environments where daily activities and potential hazards overlap. It is important to establish safe play areas for children and ensure they are supervised at all times to help prevent accidents.
Sharing the road with farm equipment – Rural road safety is a shared responsibility. Farmers operating equipment on roadways should ensure it is equipped with proper lighting and signage to remain clearly visible to motorists. Motorists travelling on rural roads should be prepared to encounter slow moving vehicles at any time. Because farm equipment travels much slower than other vehicles, reaction time is limited. Avoid passing farm equipment on hills, curves, double lines, bridges or intersections. Always give farm equipment plenty of space. And use extra caution around horse-drawn vehicles, sudden noise and movement can cause panic. Let’s help ensure everyone gets home safe.
Mental health – Farming can come with significant pressure, long hours and a heavy workload. The Wellington County OPP wants to remind the community that there are local resources and supports available.
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: 9-8-8
- Here 24/7 – addictions, mental health and crisis services for Waterloo and Wellington: 1-844-437-3247
- Rural Wellington Peer Support Team – local, lived-experience peer support for individuals navigating substance‑use challenges. Contact Joe Wettlaufer, Peer Coordinator: 519-321-9671
