New bin rescue tube can save a farmer's life

Ogle County fire departments have a new tool in their farm rescue arsenal, thanks a local organization.

The Ogle County Farm Bureau purchased a Liberty Rescue Tube for use if someone is trapped in a grain storage bin.

The tube consists of polyurethane panels with interlocking sections that can be pushed down into the grain to surround a person trapped in a bin.

Mt. Morris Fire Chief Rob Hough, who is also the president of the Ogle County Fire Chiefs Association, said that once the tube is around the victim, it will keep more grain from flowing in on the victim, as rescuers drain the bin.

“It’s a great tool,” Hough said. “Hopefully, we never have to use it, but it’s great to have the right equipment in case we need it.”

The tube, purchased through Rescue Vac, North Aurora, for $3,900, will be housed with other emergency response equipment at the Byron Fire Station.

Trained emergency personnel, who are part of the Ogle County Technical Rescue Team, will be available to respond and utilize the rescue tube in case of a grain bin incident.

Hough said the Ogle County Technical Rescue Team is comprised of firefighters from most of the fire departments in the county and are trained to do rescue in various situations.

In northern Illinois several grain bin accidents have been documented in the past few years.

“The Ogle County Farm Bureau has been a proponent and advocate of farm safety for many years,” said Ogle County Farm Bureau Membership Chairman Stan Eden. “We care deeply for the health and safety of our members, recognizing that farming is an inherently dangerous occupation. We are pleased to provide our county’s emergency personnel with the necessary equipment needed to respond to farm accidents.”