The Rippey fire department hosted a training in grain bin rescue yesterday (Aug. 9). Fire department personnel from Grand Junction, Jefferson and Dawson participated, learning to use grain engulfment rescue tubes.
The training was conducted by staff from Professional Rescue Innovations and was funded by the Fire Service Training Bureau, a division of the state fire marshal’s office.
The Rippey fire department recently purchased a set of rescue tubes (yellow tubes, pictured right) and a rescue auger with funding from Heartland Cooperative and the Greene County Community Foundation. The Jefferson fire department recently received grain rescue equipment (pictured, left) from an anonymous donor.
Both sets of equipment were used in the training. Shane Olson of the Jefferson fire department (pictured) was the first “victim” during the training.
During a grain bin rescue, the tubes, which come apart in quarters, are assembled around the victim. The victim then scoops grain out of the tube, or it can be augered out, reducing the weight and pressure of the grain on the victim. The victim can be taken out or can climb out using footholds on the inside of the tube, depending on his strength and condition.
Young Jacob Honkomp of Winterset also volunteered to be a “victim.” He was there with is father Jeff, who works for Heartland Coop. Jacob was doing research for a presentation for his Madison County 4-H club.
