Cow deaths show site safety must always be a priority
The unfortunate deaths of 11 cows by electrocution highlights the need to stay on top of maintenance and on-farm safety, says Federated Farmers Northland Provincial President John Blackwell.

The cows were killed this week on a Dargaville farm after a fallen power service line sagged onto a nearby live 400-volt line causing the downed line to become armed.
John says it was incredible luck no one else was hurt and there was no loss to human life.
"My condolences to the farmer concerned. It must have been awful to see the animals like that.
"It is my understanding it was the farmer’s responsibility to remove the downed line."

This incident should drive home the message of safety first for any property manager or land owner.
"Even if people think lines are disconnected they can still be deadly. Get onto health and safety problems when you know about them - do not procrastinate."