When farmers become trapped in grain bins and other storage facilities, the ending is usually not a happy one. According to Purdue University researchers, more than 900 cases of grain engulfment have been reported over the past 50 years with a fatality rate of 62%.
With the proper equipment and training, however, fire departments and other first responders can increase the odds of a successful rescue.
For the fourth year in a row, Nationwide is awarding grain rescue tubes and specialized hands-on training to first responders. “Deploying a grain rescue tube is the only way to safely remove someone trapped in grain,” says Brad Liggett, president of Nationwide Agribusiness. “Until we can convince all farmers and other grain handlers to develop a zero-entry mentality, we will continue to make tubes available.”
Since the program’s inception, 32 fire departments in 15 states have been awarded rescue tubes.
To learn more or to nominate your local fire department, visit grainbinsafetyweek.com. Nominations are due May 31.
No comments:
Post a Comment