While the hazards from infection resulting from a farm visit are real, the risks are readily controlled by everyday measures. The following sensible steps will help make your visit even more safe, healthy and enjoyable. Before your visit Discuss visit arrangements with the farmer. Read and understand the advice given in the health and safety executive sheet AIS23. (http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ais23.pdf) Decide what ratio of adults to pupils. As a general rule 1:4 for 3 to 5 year olds, and 1:8 for 5 to 8 year olds. Ensure supervisors understand the need to follow the rules suggested below. Discuss with pupils the rules for the visit. Make sure that pupils wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and that cuts and grazes are covered with a waterproof dressing. During and after the visit Ensure the children: Do not kiss the animals, suck fingers or put pencils in mouths. Wash hands thoroughly before and after eating, after any contact with animals and again before leaving the farm. Never eat food which has fallen on the ground, or taste animal foods. Stay in their allocated groups. Do not use or pick up tools, climb on walls or animal pens. Listen carefully and follow the instructions and information given by the farm staff. Approach and handle animals quietly and gently. Remember The children are your responsibility and should be supervised during the visit, especially during hand washing. If a member of your group shows signs of illness after a visit, advise their parent or guardian to take them to their doctor and explain that they have had recent contact with animals.