Grain Bin Rescue Class
September 15, 2025 6:00pm
The Weesaw Township Fire Department is partnering with the National Education Center For Agricultural Safety and Northeast Iowa Community College to host a Grain Bin Rescue class on September 15th at 6 PM, This event will be open to all fire departments and EMS services in Berrien County, Cass County, and Indiana, as well as any individuals within the farming industry, as they often serve as the first responders at the scene. As more farmers look to use on-farm grain storage to increase corn production and take advantage of fluctuations in grain market prices, there is a growing need for grain bin safety training. This training will help both farmers and rescue personnel understand how to respond effectively to potential accidents. The one-day training program is specifically designed for emergency responders who may be called to assist individuals trapped in a grain bin. Upon completion of this course, responders will gain specialized knowledge that will enable them to function effectively as members of a grain rescue team. Local farmers and extension agents are encouraged to attend to learn how they can assist in the event of a grain bin emergency.
Grain Bin Rescue: Firefighters will learn the main cause of grain engulfments and will be instructed on how to safely enter into a grain bin to perform a grain bin rescue. They will learn safety around grain and grain storage facilities, lockout tag-out procedures, treating a patient with crushing injuries, use of the grain rescue tube, and how to make cuts into the grain bin panel for full engulfment rescue. The program allows several evolutions with the grain bin rescue simulator dealing with both partial engulfment and full engulfment’s.
The class is usually slated for about 4 hours. Approx. an hour and a half of classroom followed by the hands-on
Cost for the class $10.00 per person day of event
Bunker gear is optional. Helmets, safety eyewear, and gloves should be worn for hands-on.
To sign up, Contact Jeff Starbuck at 269-876-0173 or email [email protected]