Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Soybean Board to Partner for Grain Bin Rescue Equipment and Training in 2026

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) and Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) are partnering once again to encourage grain bin safety by donating two grain rescue tubes and training sessions to fire and rescue departments in Nebraska. In collaboration with Nationwide and the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), this initiative aims to equip rural fire and rescue teams with the knowledge and tools to respond to grain bin entrapments effectively, safely and efficiently.

Grain bin accidents remain a significant hazard in agriculture, with suffocation from engulfment being the leading cause of death in grain bins. When someone becomes trapped in a grain bin, a rescuer must pull the weight of the victim and the weight (force) of the grain surrounding the victim. The force needed to save a person is higher, the deeper a person is buried in the grain. If a 165-pound victim is three feet deep in grain, the extraction force required is 160 pounds. If they are six feet deep, the extraction force increases to over 1,335 pounds.

“With farmers actively moving grain, selling from bins and checking conditions this spring, now is a critical time to stress grain bin safety,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of NCB and farmer from Giltner, Nebraska. “We’re proud to once again sponsor this grain bin safety program to help reduce risks and prevent tragedies in our farming and rural communities. Every safe step in and around grain bins is important.”

To facilitate the donation process, NSB and NCB have created an entry form for Nebraska fire and first responder departments to apply for the grain rescue tubes and training sessions. Community members, farmers and emergency personnel are encouraged to submit nominations explaining how their local fire department would benefit from this life-saving equipment and training. The deadline to submit nominations is April 17, 2026.

The two selected grain bin training sessions will be scheduled by NECAS staff. To submit an entry for grain rescue equipment and training, visit this form (form.jotform.com/Soybean/NCB_NSB_GrainRescueGiveaway) or the Nebraska Corn Board or Nebraska Soybean Board’s websites.

“Grain bin accidents can happen in seconds, and access to proper training and rescue equipment can mean the difference between life and death,” said Andy Chvatal, NSB executive director. “We are proud to work with great partners to ensure Nebraska’s rural emergency responders have the resources they need to protect Nebraska farm families.”

It is essential to follow key safety practices that protect those working in and around grain bins. The best way to reduce the risk of grain entrapment on your farm or facility is to never enter bins unless absolutely necessary. If entry is required, be sure to follow these seven safety steps:

1. Always visually inspect the grain bin or storage area before entering it.
2. Ensure all equipment and power sources for grain handling equipment have been shut off, secured and/or properly locked.
3. The person entering the grain bin must wear a safety harness and lifeline attached and properly secured or be seated in a boatswain chair.
4. Wear an appropriate dust mask or respirator when entering grain bins to protect against dust and mold exposure.
5. Never enter a grain bin alone.
6. There must be an observer located outside of the grain bin who can monitor the person inside.
7. Ensure the observer and person in the bin can easily communicate.
8. Ensure that rescue resources are available if the person does become entrapped.