Tragedy recently struck Northeast Missouri as a long-time farmer went missing. 

His truck was found idling on the family farm, and the search would have a tragic ending as his body would eventually be found in a grain bin.

While the accident didn’t occur in Audrain County, it’s a reminder that farming can be a dangerous business. 

Based in the Biofuel Capital of Missouri, and surrounded by family farms, Little Dixie Fire Protection District members are well aware of the importance of agriculture in the area. And they know that farming can be a high-risk occupation.

With that in mind, the district added a tool to their arsenal about five years ago, after several fatalities occurred around the country. And it’s something they hope to never use: The Great Wall of Rescue. The Great Wall is a device designed specifically for grain bin rescue, and while fire chief Bill Albus says they’ve never had to use it, he adds that they are ready.

“We felt that it would be a benefit to our taxpayers and citizens for us to have the equipment available in the event of an incident,” said Albus, “since we have numerous grain farms and bins around.”

The department got a lift, securing a grant through Monsanto to enable the purchase.

The rescue kit consists of metal sections of a tubular wall that can be placed around the trapped victim, and an auger. Once the wall is placed around the victim, the auger - which is operated with a battery-powered drill - can be used to remove grain. Time is of the essence, and the department trains on the equipment to make sure they remain familiar with its set-up and operation.

“We have been lucky that we haven't had to use it since we purchased it,” said Albus, “but we train with it at least once or twice a year.”

The department typically goes to an area farm and conducts the training exercise. One selected farm was that of Josh Biggers, one of Little Dixie’s captains and a farmer. 

Little Dixie also purchased a fan to assist in removing dust from the bin and help oxygen flow. 

“The grain acts similar quicksand keeping the victim trapped and unable to move,” said Albus, “as well as putting pressure on the chest making breathing difficult. 

Grain bin safety is just one of the things concerning Little Dixie. Farmers need to remain vigilant at all times - which can be admittedly tricky. Other concerns are victims getting caught in augers, tractors overturning, and combines and other equipment being used malfunctioning and causing fires which quickly spread to corn, wheat or hay fields.

“One of the best things that can be done is to call 911 as soon as possible to have us dispatched to the incident,” said Albus. “The quicker we get the call the quicker we can get to the scene to hopefully provide a favorable outcome to the incident.”

While equipment can be costly, there is assistance available, and at least one insurance company - Nationwide - is holding a grain bin safety equipment giveaway, details of which can be found at.nationwide.com/lc/resources/farm-and-agribusiness/articles/grain-bin-safety-week. This year’s entry deadline is April 30.