04/12/2026
In the wake of this weekend's tragedy, we’ve received many questions about grain bin rescue resources and what is currently available in our region.
Through partnerships between the Delaware Soybean Board, Delaware Farm Bureau, Maryland Soybean Board, Maryland Farm Bureau, Maryland Grain Producers, Horizon Farm Credit, and Nationwide—in collaboration with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety—grain bin rescue tubes and critical safety training have been provided to local fire departments across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
These life-saving tools are strategically placed throughout the region to support emergency responders when every second counts. Many poultry company grain facilities also maintain rescue tubes on-site as an added layer of protection.
We also want to share that nominations for additional fire companies to receive grain bin rescue equipment and training are currently being accepted through April 30. You can submit a nomination here: https://bit.ly/4c6EQf5
The Delaware Soybean Board has previously explored placing this equipment directly on individual farms. However, we have been advised that without proper training, grain bin rescue tubes can do more harm than good. For that reason, this equipment is best placed in the hands of trained first responders who are equipped to use it safely and effectively in emergency situations.
We encourage farmers, employees, and family members to be aware of the locations of nearby rescue equipment and to review grain bin safety practices before entering bins or working around stored grain.
A list of grain bin rescue tubes currently available in Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland is included below. For a full list of locations supported through this program, please visit: https://bit.ly/4c4a3zs
ETA: We have also received input of tubes located in Millsboro, Kent Special Operations Team, and Sussex Operation Team in Delaware, and Eldorado-Brookview on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Please continue sharing other locations you may know of so we can have a complete list.
Safety remains a shared responsibility. Continued awareness, preparation, and access to the right equipment can make a critical difference in preventing future tragedies.
📸: Training at Felton Community Fire Company, Inc., sponsored by the Delaware Soybean Board last summer.