New signs advise public on staying safe around cattle

NFU Mutual has produced new signs for farmers to put up in the countryside offering advice to walkers to stay safe around cattle.

The signs urge walkers to move quietly and predictability to avoid any alarm to cattle, highlighting how livestock can react to people’s presence.

See also: How to stay safe with cattle as public footfall increases

They also encourage walkers to keep their dogs on leads but release immediately if chased by cattle and to give cows space if they are on or near the footpath, rejoining the route when safe to do so.

Incidents with livestock remain a major cause of fatal and serious injury to farmworkers and are the main reason members of the public lose their lives on farms.

NFU Mutual has teamed up with the Farm Safety Foundation and the NFU to launch the signs during Farm Safety Week, which ends on Friday (21 July).

NFU vice-president David Exwood said: “As farmers, we welcome public access to the countryside. Not only is it a great way for people to see where their food comes from, but it can also provide numerous important mental and physical wellbeing benefits.

“When walking through a farm, it is crucial for people to remember it is a working environment and so they should prioritise their safety and remain vigilant at all times.”

Stephanie Berkeley, Farm Safety Foundation manager, added: “We are proud to support this new campaign by NFU Mutual and remind farmers of their legal duty to consider the health and safety of members of the public using public rights of way through their fields.” 

The signs will be available from local NFU Mutual agency offices in the coming weeks.