The 20th Annual Farm Rescue School, hosted by the Bettie Volunteer Fire Department, is Saturday, March 6.

The department is located on Bluebonnet Road, off U.S. 271 six miles north of Gilmer.

The school is being conducted by the Texas Engineering Extension Service, which is part of the Texas A&M University System; and the Upshur County Firefighters Association.

Registration is 7 to 8 a.m., with classes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost is $30, which includes lunch. Registration is limited to 60 students.

All members of volunteer, paid or part-paid departments of cities and industries who want the latest training in rescue skills relating to farm machinery and equipment are invited to attend.

Sponsors say this will allow fire fighters to keep abreast of new opportunities and developments in the fire service and learn the most current farm rescue methods.

The morning session includes a lecture, video and slide presentation outlining the hazards associated with farm- and agriculture-related equipment and facilities, as well as an overview of dealing with Africanized (Killer) Bees.

In the afternoon, there will be ag-rescue rotating classes with hands-on training with farm rescue and safety precautions on working displays of a variety of farm machinery.

Topics they plan to cover include:

• Patient packaging/victim extrication. This qualifies for Texas Emergency Medical Services CE credit.

• Airbags

• Hydraulics

• Mowers

• Augers

• Round bailers

• Overturned tractors

• PTO accidents

• ICS

Participants must attend both sessions to receive a completion certificate. They must bring their own NFPA- or OSHA-approved protective clothing.

No shorts or sleeveless shirts will be permitted, and participants must be at least 18 years old.