CFS provides grain bin safety training

Central Farm Service is aiming to enhance safety related to grain bins by recently providing incident command training for area fire departments.
The local farm cooperative hosted an incident command for grain bin incidents class at its Clarks Grove facility on March 16. Firefighters from 18 different departments took part in the training.
Stephanie Peterson, spokesperson for CFS, said the training was an informative and rewarding experience for all those involved. “We are humbled and grateful for the impressive turnout of 75 firefighters representing several departments, with a few traveling 74 miles to attend, making it a true testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit they provide within our communities,” she said.
Jack Volz, owner of Safety and Security Consultation Specialists, was the instructor for the class. Others responsible for setting up the training were Craig Christenson, CFS grain operations manager and Shannon Bode, CFS vice president and member of the Grain Operations Safety Professionals Group. Crystal Valley Co-op donated grain bin sheets for the training exercises. Crystal Valley’s contribution allowed attendees to test various metal cutting blades, shedding light on the importance of effective equipment in emergencies.
“This training event supported CFS’s efforts to promote safety and preparedness within the agricultural community,” said Peterson. “We are thankful to everyone who contributed to the success of this event. Your support and dedication are invaluable, and we look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts in the future.”
Departments taking part in the training included: Ellendale, Geneva, Owatonna, Hollandale, New Richland, Hayfield, Waseca, Lewisville, Truman, Winnebago, Delavan, Amboy, Clarks Grove, Fairmont, Darfur, Kenyon, Welcome and Good Thunder.