In conjunction with Grain Bin Safety Week, Feb. 21–27, Nationwide is teaming up with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety and other partners to award first responders grain bin rescue tubes and specialized grain rescue training.

Rural firefighters are often the first and only line of defense when someone becomes trapped in a grain bin. Many fire departments lack the specialized rescue techniques and equipment necessary for a successful grain bin rescue. 

“Grain bin accidents can tragically impact individuals, families and entire communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Nationwide Agribusiness. “Accident prevention means everyone working together, and Grain Bin Safety Week provides a forum for the agricultural community to help keep people safe.”   

Nationwide and its partners are awarding one grain bin rescue tube, valued at between $3,000 and $5,000, and one six-hour grain entrapment rescue training session at the winner’s location, valued at up to $5,000, to each winning entry. The number of winners and prizes won’t be known until the contest ends May 31.

During the last two years, the national contest awarded tubes and training to 13 fire departments in 12 states.

In 2014, 38 documented entrapments resulted in 17 deaths, according to Purdue University. It was the highest numbers since 2010 — when at least 26 U.S. workers were killed in grain engulfments.

“That’s where Grain Bin Safety Week can help,” Liggett said. “This program brings attention to life-saving extraction methods and procedures, which can improve responder and victim safety.”

Nominations can be submitted online, via email or by mail.

Online
Email: [email protected]
Mail: NECAS, Grain Bin Safety Ag Contest, 8342 NICC Dr.,
Peosta, IA 52068

To enter, describe how the fire department or emergency rescue team and rural community would benefit from grain entrapment training and a rescue tube, and how they plan to share the tube and training with nearby departments. Include your name, occupation, phone number, mailing and email address, the name, address and phone number of the fire department or team.

Source: Nationwide