$361K FEMA grant supports new powered stair chairs for Fire Departments in Dearborn, Detroit

Published Nov. 20, 2025

The Dearborn and Detroit Fire Departments successfully collaborated to secure a $361,000 FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), which will be used to purchase 38 powered stair chairs. Dearborn is overseeing the requirements of the grant funds, which provides 30 chairs to the Detroit Fire Department and 8 chairs to the Dearborn Fire Department.

Dearborn Fire Chief Joe Murray called the equipment "a game changer," stating, "Working together to secure this funding ensures firefighters can move patients safely while reducing injuries to our crews. Collaboration like this makes all of us stronger and ultimately benefits the people we serve."

The new Xpedition equipment, developed by Stryker, a global medical technology organization, is especially beneficial for moving patients up and down tight and narrow staircases, which are often common in older communities such as Detroit and Dearborn.

The chairs help properly secure patients and reduce firefighter injuries by distributing weight onto the tracks of the stairs, allowing first responders to safely and efficiently transport patients in a controlled manner, and increasing both comfort and security when moving them.

Detroit Fire Department Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms emphasized regional strength, stating "Whether it’s training, emergency response, or community education, we’re stronger when we work together. This is just the beginning of what we can achieve as one region."

Find out more about Detroit Fire Department’s regional collaboration efforts at DetroitMI.Gov
 

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