CASA partnership expands firefighter grain rescue training
The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) is recognizing Bunge for its commitment to farm safety through continued support of the BeGrainSafe program. This program raises awareness about the dangers of moving grain and provides firefighters with practical rescue training.
Bunge recently merged with Viterra, a long-time sponsor of BeGrainSafe, and has chosen to continue this important partnership. CASA leaders say this support allows them to reach more communities and train more first responders.
“Support from sponsors like Bunge makes all the difference,” said Sandra Miller, CASA’s Executive Director. “Viterra was a long-standing sponsor of BeGrainSafe, and we are so pleased that Bunge has chosen to carry that legacy forward. With their support, we can reach more communities, provide more firefighter training, and help prevent tragic incidents on Canadian farms.”
BeGrainSafe’s key feature is a mobile training trailer that travels across Canada. Firefighters receive hands-on experience in grain rescue operations and learn how to safely respond to grain entrapment emergencies. The program also educates farmers and families on the risks of flowing grain and the proper use of safety equipment.
Bunge’s commitment to safety extends beyond sponsorship. “At Bunge, safety is the top priority across our business, and we are constantly working to build on our strong safety culture to ensure our employees go home safely at the end of the day,” said Kyle Jeworski, head of Canada, Bunge.
“That’s why we are pleased to continue our partnership with CASA, which does excellent work providing the necessary resources to raise awareness and provide training on avoiding and minimizing grain hazards in our business.”
Since its launch, BeGrainSafe has trained numerous fire departments and held demonstrations nationwide. Each August, CASA hosts BeGrainSafe Week to highlight the importance of grain hazard prevention.
The program is supported by a wide network of agricultural partners, including Corteva AgriScience, G3, CN, Farm Credit Canada, Alberta Canola Producers Commission, Canadian Canola Growers Association, Nutrien Ag Solutions, and others.
CASA is a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and safety of farmers, workers, and their families. With Bunge’s backing, the BeGrainSafe initiative will continue to expand life-saving training and protect rural communities across Canada. For more details, visit casa-acsa.ca/begrainsafe.
Photo Credit: CASA