By Andi Anderson
In honor of National Farmer Appreciation Day, Spirit EMS employees dedicated their weekend to recognizing the hardworking farmers of Shelby County.
Teams of EMS staff personally visited fields in Loramie and Washington townships to thank farmers for their contributions and present them with multi-tool kits designed for everyday use on the farm.
At sunrise, two EMS teams set out to meet farmers where they work. Each farmer received a personalized card of gratitude from Spirit EMS and a compact multi-tool equipped with pliers, screwdrivers, scissors, and other handy instruments.
The gesture was meant to both thank farmers and provide them with a practical tool for quick repairs and emergencies.
“As a family-owned and operated business, we’re committed to giving back to the communities we serve,” said Brian K. Hathaway, President and CEO of Spirit EMS. “This year, we wanted to offer something even more versatile—an all-in-one multi-tool that saves time, improves safety, and keeps farmers prepared in the field.”
Those participating in the deliveries included Vice President Aaron Guthrie, Captain Will Gardam, John R. Hathaway Jr., Jeannie Lewis, and Jessica Park.
National Farmer Appreciation Day, officially recognized by the American Farm Bureau Federation since 1970, celebrates the vital contributions farmers make to food production and the economy. Spirit EMS’s initiative highlights its continued commitment to rural safety and support for the agricultural community.
According to Ohio State University Extension, one in 14 Ohio farm families experiences at least one injury each year. While fatalities have declined to an average of 12 annually, the most common non-fatal injuries remain cuts, fractures, and falls.
With harvest season underway, Spirit EMS urges both farmers and motorists to stay alert and cautious around agricultural machinery. “By staying prepared and promoting safety, we can help prevent injuries and save lives,” Hathaway added.
The outreach effort served as both a thank-you and a reminder: safety, preparedness, and community care go hand-in-hand in Ohio’s farming heartland.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety