FARMERS have been advised to check their farms are safe before hosting a visit or an open day.

"Hosting a farm visit is an excellent way to educate members of the public about modern farming, but visits must be planned carefully to minimise risk of accidents," said Pamela Oldfield, of the Stratford-based NFU Mutual Risk Management Services.

She explained: "A number of hazards lie in wait for the unwary, especially those who are visiting farms for the first time and the increasingly litigious culture means farmers and property owners can face big claims for damages should the worst happen."

She recommended that farmers minimised risk by following NFU Mutual's checklist:

l Identify and contain hazardous areas and activities, on particular machinery, chemicals and slurry pits. Visitors should be warned not to handle animal feed and be careful not to let animals lick them as some diseases cane be transferred this way. Visitors need access to toilets, hot running water and soap.

l Keep children out of work areas. Children are naturally curious and can often get into apparently inaccessible places.

l Keep employees informed. Let them know where and when the public will be visiting and advise them on non-hazardous activities they can demonstrate.

l Brief visit organiser and provide an information pack detailing suitable clothing, first aid and parking facilities.