Two states, two rescues, one lifesaving mission
Nationwide’s safety program and local sponsors support successful grain bin rescues in Illinois and Minnesota
On back-to-back days this July, emergency calls in Illinois and Minnesota prompted urgent rescue efforts by local fire departments. In both cases individuals faced life-threatening danger, but the first responders were ready when it mattered most. The successful rescues were made possible in part by the specialized tools and training provided through Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety program, along with support from local sponsors who helped bring these life-saving resources to their communities.
In Fulton County, Illinois, the Macomb Fire Department responded to a call about a farmer trapped in corn up to their chin. Although the department didn’t need to deploy its grain rescue tube, received in 2023 through Nationwide’s program and sponsored by GROWMARK, the firefighters relied on the specialized training they received to safely extract the victim.
“Safety is paramount for the GROWMARK FS System,” said Karmy Kays, GROWMARK Chief Financial Officer. “We are proud to support first responders with the equipment needed to potentially save lives.”
Just one day later in Hutchinson, Minnesota, the Hutchinson Fire Department used its grain rescue tube and training, sponsored by David Larson Insurance, to save a farmer buried nearly to their neck in corn.
“In 2018, David Larson Insurance helped purchase a grain rescue tube for the Hutchinson Fire Department, and Nationwide provided excellent training,” said Craig Schmeling, agent at David Larson Insurance. “We are thankful to Nationwide and their affiliates for that training and to the Hutchinson Firefighters for their time and sacrifice. Knowing that this training and equipment helped save a life in our community is something we’re profoundly grateful for.”
The need for these resources remains significant. With two rescues this summer, six rescues in 2024, and a total of 15 lives saved since 2014, Nationwide’s program continues to make a meaningful impact in rural communities. Thanks to the support of local sponsors and partners, the program has awarded 450 grain rescue tubes to first responders across 36 states – over $2 million in resources provided. Nationwide collaborates each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to deliver the rescue equipment and provide safety training.
“As a protection company, there’s nothing more important to us than protecting lives, so the Grain Bin Safety program was created,” said Paul Stevenson, risk management expert and Grain Bin Safety team lead at Nationwide. “It is a great honor to know that 15 folks so far can go home to their families and have dinner because of a program we developed and executed, to provide assets and training to those who can save the life – the fire departments.”
With continued support from local sponsors and growing awareness across rural communities, the Grain Bin Safety program is helping turn dangerous moments into stories of survival.