By Andi Anderson
Agriculture remains one of the most dangerous industries in the United States, and Michigan is no exception. In 2023 alone, the state reported 447 farm-related injuries and 21 fatalities.
To address one of the most serious risks—grain bin accidents—Michigan State University (MSU) Extension is leading hands-on Grain Bin Rescue Training events.
These training sessions are designed for both farmers and first responders and will begin on Wednesday, June 25, at the Berlin Fairgrounds. Additional sessions will be available at different locations across Michigan, with details listed on the MSU Extension website.
Charles Gould, a bio-energy educator with MSU Extension, explains that grain bin rescue is complex. “Grain bins are circular, and cutting into one the wrong way can cause more harm, either to the structure or the person trapped inside,” he said. Inside the bin, gas pockets and active augers—devices that move grain—can also make the situation worse within seconds.
During the training, a bin filled with grain is brought in to simulate a real rescue. A volunteer will be engulfed up to the chest to demonstrate how quickly someone can become trapped.
Trainers then walk responders through the safe process of extracting the individual while others observe and learn.
This program is a collaboration between MSU Extension, the Michigan Farm Bureau, the Occupational and Environmental Medicine Division at MSU, and the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan.
These sessions aim to raise awareness and provide life-saving skills that could prevent further tragedies in the farming community. By educating those who work in agriculture and emergency services, the training helps prepare them to act quickly and safely in high-risk situations.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety