Due to request from local volunteer fire departments, and the visual increase in grain bin infrastructure, the Grayson County Agriculture & Natural Resources agent worked alongside the Grayson Co. Fire Chiefs to develop a Grain entrapment training for the county. With the help of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, KY State Fire Commission, Grayson County Fire District, and the Grayson County Farm Bureau, the Grayson County Extension office held a 2 part session for volunteer fire and rescue and farmers.

 The first session was held on January 18^th with collaboration with Mr. Dale Dobson and KY Department of Agriculture Farm Safety Director and the KY Fire commission where participants were able to watch Silo the Film and learn about the dangers of grain entrapment. They also were able to see the tools used to help make grain bin extraction safer and more effective.

The second session was a hands on training at the Leitchfield Fire Station 1 on March 6, 2022. First responders from each department were trained hands on with the tools necessary for proper extraction. Each first responder received certification hours through the Kentucky State Fire Commission.

During this event, each of the volunteer fire department worked together to discuss the need for these tools and began developing a plan to ask for grant funds to help purchase one for each VFD in the county. Working with Grayson Co. Farm Bureau, Grayson County Extension, Grayson County Soil Conservation and KADF, they developed a plan to get the entire cost paid for with cost share from Ag Development funds and donations from the aforementioned entities.  

These organizations realize the importance of this training and the tools needed to ensure a quick, safe grain bin extraction. Through the grant funds, they were able to secure 7 turtle tubes and a Great Wall grain entrapment tool. The 7 tubes will be dispersed at each of the VFD’s in the county, and the Great Wall will remain at the Leitchfield Fire Station on the ladder truck. The goal is to never have to use these items, but the reality is, if it is needed, the first responders are trained and ready to be called into action.