The South Beach Regional Fire Authority recently purchased three power-load systems and three compatible power gurneys to use in its front-line ambulances.

The purchase was made with a $137,593.31 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in the amount of $137,593.51. The Stryker gurneys purchased can automatically raise and lower up to 700 pounds safely.

“This purchase aligns with the mission of South Beach Regional Fire Authority, while protecting people through progressive and responsible hazard and injury prevention,” said Battalion Chief Daryl Brown. “One of our greatest risks of injury is lifting patients. Our department is committed to doing whatever is necessary within our means to alleviate risk to our firefighters and community.”

South Beach Regional Fire Authority responds to an average of 1,700 calls a year. According to a fire authority statement, the current gurneys were approaching their end-of-service life and not directly compatible with the back-saving, power-load system.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics firefighters, EMTs and paramedics have one of the highest rates of injuries and illness compared to all occupations, and many of these injuries are due to lifting patients.