The tragic death of a two year boy over the weekend, has prompted calls for the need to raise awareness of children safety on tractors, and around farms.

The boy died when he fell from his father’s moving tractor in a paddock near Rerewhakaaitu, 40km southeast of Rotorua.

CPR was performed on scene, but he was unable to be revived.

Federated Farmers Rotorua Sharemilker Section Chairman Mr. John Butterworth, told Country99TV that child safety is important on tractors and around farms, and steps should be taken to ensure their safety.

“It’s just more education and getting the word out there, that big machinery and kids don’t match”

Mr. Butterworth said that a child that age shouldn’t have been on a tractor as there aren’t proper restraints ensuring that the child is safe.

Steps can be taken to ensure that both adults and children are safe while operating tractors and working around farms.

Mr. Butterworth recommends that people are educated on tractor safety.

“There are courses available through farm safe or Agriculture ITO. You are taught all this from the beginning.”

The Department of Labour provides a list of tips which include walking around the farm with children and identifying the hazards together. Adult supervision is the key and for young children it needs to be close and active.