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Grain bin safety is a critical issue for farmers and agricultural workers across the nation. Each year, preventable tragedies occur when individuals become trapped in flowing grain. It only takes seconds to be engulfed, turning a routine task into a life-or-death emergency. This reality underscores the vital importance of preparation, training and awareness.

Rural fire departments are often the first on the scene when a grain entrapment occurs. However, many of these dedicated first responders lack the specialized equipment and training required for a successful rescue. This gap in resources can be the difference between a close call and a devastating loss. When every minute counts, having the right tools and knowledge is essential. That’s why the Grain Bin Safety Week initiative continues to be a cornerstone of farm safety education.

Why Grain Bin Safety Week matters

With proper equipment and skills, first responders can save lives that might otherwise be lost to grain entrapment. Providing these resources is the core mission of Grain Bin Safety Week, an initiative launched by Nationwide in 2014. By equipping and training local heroes, we can help prevent these tragedies.

“As we look toward the 2026 program, Grain Bin Safety Week continues to be one of our most significant safety initiatives,” said Nationwide Agribusiness President Brad Liggett. “We are committed to our goal of ‘zero lives lost.’ In partnership with our dedicated allies, we are constantly advancing grain bin safety through education and the distribution of life-saving equipment. Ultimately, our work is about ensuring everyone returns home safely at the end of the day.”

How you can equip your local first responders

As part of Grain Bin Safety Week, Nationwide and the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) are once again holding the annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest. Through this contest, selected first responders receive grain rescue tubes and essential hands-on training to use them effectively.

To date, the program has awarded 450 grain rescue tubes and the necessary training to fire departments in 35 states. This effort has made a tangible impact. At least 15 departments have already used their awarded equipment and training to successfully rescue entrapped workers.

“This program has an immediate positive impact for first responders around rural Ohio,” said Mike Bailey, Ohio Farm Bureau senior vice president, operations & partnerships. “We’re fortunate to have organizations like NECAS leading this training, and Nationwide’s support of the program helps us reach even more rural first responders who can, in turn, leverage what they learn to save even more lives.”

Key details for the 2026 program

Grain Bin Safety Week takes place during the third full week of February. The Nominate Your Fire Department Contest runs annually from Jan. 1 to April 30. Since its inception, the contest, supported by Nationwide, NECAS and other generous sponsors, has received over 13,000 nominations from communities passionate about safety.

NECAS Director Dan Neenan plays a crucial role in the program. He travels to winning fire departments with a state-of-the-art mobile grain entrapment simulator. This simulator, built on a 20-foot trailer holding about 100 bushels of grain, provides a realistic and safe environment for hands-on training.

“We urge everyone to take a moment to nominate their local first responders for this program,” Liggett added. “The department you nominate could be the next to save a life in your community. Your participation truly makes a difference.”

Visit grainbinsafetyweek.com to learn more, see if a rescue tube has been awarded near you, and nominate your local fire department today.