Family of farmer killed in grain bin accident speaks out for safety

PORTAGEVILLE, Mo. -- If any positive element can come of the tragic death last month of local farmer David Dowdy, perhaps it is a reminder to stay safe. A campaign now underway stresses the importance of farm-related safety, in particular when dealing with grain bins and proper safety measures to be practiced when grain bins are entered and augers are in use.

Dowdy, 61, suffocated after falling into a grain bin in the morning hours of Aug. 12 as he tried to loosen a top layer of crusted corn. Dowdy's son, Matt, was forced to let go of his father's hand and rush to turn off the two augers in use, but it was too late.

On Wednesday, Pam Dowdy and her children addressed the 48th annual Delta Center Field Day in Portageville. Most of those in attendance knew David Dowdy, either through his farming history or through his volunteer work with the University of Missouri Extension. They were reminded by his family members why the community lost David Dowdy and how they can prevent the same tragedy.

"Thankfully, I did not lose a son that day," Pam Dowdy said. "His daddy's hand slipping out of his is the last memory my son will have of him," she said.

She urged those who work in the industry, "Please take the time to use safety equipment. It is not any good in the back of the pickup or in the tool shed."

Last year there were 34 reported entrapment incidents nationwide, many coming during the busy harvest season.

"Entrapment can happen within an instant," said Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri agricultural safety specialist. "Research shows you can be completely submerged in about eight seconds in a typical Missouri grain bin operation. Because of the tremendous force of flowing grain, you are helpless to escape once you are trapped knee-deep in grain."

"We hope by speaking out, even in our grief," said Pam Dowdy, "that another life will not be lost."