Three Kansas grain industry organizations have awarded a $90,000 gift to the Kansas Fire and Rescue Training Institute in Lawrence for equipment to train Kansas firefighters and grain handlers for people trapped in grain bins and hoppers.

The institute is part of Kansas University Continuing Education.

“This gift gives us the resources to provide training that will undoubtedly save lives,” said institute director Glenn Pribbenow said. “We have an important responsibility to ensure that Kansas firefighters are prepared to meet these types of emergencies, and this training will help us continue to meet those needs.”

The donation comes from the Kansas Grain and Feed Association, the Kansas Cooperative Council and the Kansas Farmers Service Association.

“Safety is of primary concern to the grain industry,” said Tom R. Tunnell, the grain and feed association’s president and CEO. “First and foremost is training to prevent entrapments. But it is important that grain handlers and local firefighters be prepared to respond if ever the need arises.”