Marietta, IL
At 12:01 pm on Wednesday July 23, 2025, the Macomb Fire Department was requested for mutual aid from the Smithfield Fire Department for a grain bin rescue located at 1530 E Hart Rd in Marietta Il. Members of the Macomb Fire Department along with members of the Macomb Fire Technical Rescue Team responded to the incident. Enroute, command requested additional Technical Rescue Teams from Canton and Quincy. The first arriving unit arrived on-scene at 12:23 and completed an initial assessment. They found the victim submerged in corn up to his chin, with the first responders removing corn through the bin door. Incident command immediately ordered a relief cut to the opposite side of the bin until the Technical Rescue Team arrived. Once enough grain had been removed, access through the door was made to the patient; at this point it was determined that the patient was conscious and alert. Technical Rescue members from Macomb and Canton arrived on scene at approximately 12:32 and performed another relief cut and assisted with the interior operations. The patient was rescued from the bin and transferred to LifeFlight at approximately 12:57.
Thank you to all departments involved in the incident during the extreme heat incident.
Please remember these Grain Bin Safety Tips:
• Never go in alone – Always have someone outside the bin.
• Shut off equipment – Turn off augers before entry.
• Use a safety harness – Wear a lifeline tied off outside.
• Test the air – Check for toxic gases or low oxygen.
• Avoid walking on crusted grain – It may collapse under you.
• Watch for flowing grain – It can pull you under in seconds.
• Post warning signs – Keep others alert and informed.
• Stay trained – Know the risks and emergency steps.
