Flagler County receives $5,000 grant for FCFR ‘Binder Lift’ devices

Published on July 23, 2026

July 23, 2026 – Flagler County Risk Management, a division under Human Resources, secured a $5,000 grant match to secure Binder Lift devices that help Fire Rescue responders move patients from one place to another without injury to either the patients or those attending to them.

“During a quarterly Fire Rescue meeting in January, the HR team delivered a presentation on ADA accommodations,” said Flagler County Risk Manager Mark Muzii. “Lt. John Keppler highlighted the urgent need for transfer aids (like the Binder Lift devices), noting that many firefighters struggle with recurring back injuries, especially when assisting patients from the floor.”

Back injuries have become one the most frequent workers’ compensation claims in Flagler County, which underscore the importance of investing in transfer aids to reduce risk and mitigate losses, Muzii confirmed.

The grant was secured through Flagler County’s insurance carrier, Preferred Governmental Insurance Trust (PGIT) and its training incentive program TIPS. PGIT representatives on Wednesday presented the check to Flagler County.

“Given that transfer aids were specifically requested, we had a compelling reason to seek grant funding for their procurement,” Muzii said. “I’m pleased to report that our grant application was approved, and every Flagler County fire engine is now equipped with the Binder Lift device.”

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