PHOTOS: Grain handling systems dot the landscape across the Midwest. These structures are hallmarks of the American farm, but the scary truth about them is that each grain bin carries the risk of a grain entrapment emergency.
Despite warnings not to enter bins, folks still get the itch to climb in quick and knock bridged-up grain loose. And without fail, there are always grain entrapment events — and unfortunately, deaths — every year.
“The best thing is don’t go in,” cautioned Jeff Darling, chief of the East Enterprise Volunteer Fire Department in Switzerland County, Ind. “They’ve done it for years, and everything has gone fine every time, except for the one that we’re there to help with.”
That time came in early April when a Switzerland County farmer ventured into his bin to break up some clumped grain. Before he knew it, he found himself waist-deep in corn. Luckily for him, he had his cellphone on him and was able to call family, who called first responders when they could not free him.
When Darling and his team arrived on the scene, they acted fast. Eyeing the situation, Darling knew that things could take a turn for the worst at any moment.
Farm Progress