There are certain truths that we can depend on. Here’s one: Accidents happen. Unless you live in a vacuum – and even then, a vacuum seems vulnerable to external threat – accidents will happen.
The good news is that we can do much to prevent accidents, and that’s a vitally important thought to consider as we begin a new show season.
Safety is one of our most basic responsibilities. We owe it to our families, our friends, and to all the people who come to our shows. And, when everything is said and done, we owe it to ourselves.
And why wouldn’t we put a priority on safety?
Because it costs too much? Bet it doesn’t cost as much as hospital bills, funerals or lawsuits.
Because it takes too long? Bet it doesn’t last as long as regret.
Because it might decrease the number of exhibitors or attendees? An accident at your show is not likely to grow attendance.
One of the leading topics of conversation in this hobby today is how to boost show attendance. A comprehensive safety plan is an excellent place to start. If you give people a choice of attending a safe event or a dangerous event, the vast majority will choose safety.
Safety doesn’t have to be expensive. It doesn’t have to look like a police state. It can be done in a friendly, respectful, effective manner: Ask the folks at the Mid Michigan Old Gas Tractor Assn. in Oakley, or those at the Great Oregon Steam-Up in Brooks. And there are others, all over the country, setting the example rather than turning a blind eye.
If your club has a great approach to safety, tell us about it. We’ll spread the word. Clubs looking to beef up their safety plans don’t need to reinvent the wheel if you are willing to help. Working together, we can make safety a priority! FC
Leslie C. McManus
LMcManus@ogdenpubs.com
P.S.: Planning to take in as many shows as you can this year? Let our new Farm Collector Show Directorybe your personal travel agent! Packed with information on more than 1,000 shows coast to coast, the directory puts dates, locations, features and contacts at your fingertips. It also contains a handy index arranged by show name, and contact information for collector groups and organizations across the U.S. and Canada.
