Firefighters from across the Interlake gathered in Arborg on Saturday, May 31, for a day of specialized grain rescue training aimed at improving emergency preparedness for a high-risk but uncommon farm hazard.
Firefighters from across the Interlake took part in a specialized grain rescue training session hosted by the Arborg-Bifrost Fire Department on May 31, focusing on safe extraction techniques for grain entrapment emergencies
The course, hosted by the Arborg-Bifrost Fire Department, drew 24 participants from five departments within the Mutual Aid district — Arborg/Bifrost, Riverton/Bifrost, Fraserwood, Fisher, and Gimli — who came together to train on how to safely extract individuals trapped in grain.
“This was great learning and knowledge that will be very relevant in our areas,” said Arborg-Bifrost Fire Chief Jeff Pearce. “With the heavy amount of grain industry in our area, as well as storage in bins and other forms, it is very important to have trained personnel and proper equipment to sustain emergency needs.”
The training included an online theory module followed by hands-on simulations of real-life entrapment scenarios. Using a specialized grain rescue tube and pencil auger, participants practised enclosing a victim to stabilize them and then safely removing grain from around their body. Harnesses were used to protect both the rescuers and the simulated victim throughout the delicate extraction process.
Pearce said the training emphasized how complex grain rescues can be — and how dangerous. “It’s not as simple as just pulling someone up and out. If that approach was used, there would be catastrophic damage to the victim involved,” he said. “The training shows us the proper and safest ways to retrieve someone while minimizing harm.”
Grain rescue training was last held in the district six years ago. While that course laid a foundation, Pearce said this session was mostly for new personnel. “We haven’t had to perform a grain rescue yet, and thankfully, with education and better farming practices, we’re seeing fewer accidents,” he said. “But if a situation arises, I think the team in the Interlake is fairly well prepared.”
The course also served as a reminder of the hazards rescuers face during such operations — from the risk of becoming trapped themselves to working in confined spaces around potentially active equipment.
Pearce thanked Meaghan Trachsel and the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) for coordinating the session and Lorne Johnson of Johnson Seeds for providing the grain and equipment. He noted that the training trailer travels nationwide and is open to all departments, with a $2,000 fee for equipment and instruction.
“The most valuable part of the training was the knowledge gained — understanding best practices and what needs to be done when a rescue situation occurs,” said Pearce. He added that the Arborg/Bifrost department has most of the required equipment and is working toward establishing a dedicated grain rescue trailer to serve the region.
“We’ve responded to many farm-related emergencies in the past, and each one is unique,” said Pearce. “This training helps ensure we’re ready for even the most challenging scenarios.”
