The Kissimmee Fire Department officially placed Engine 11 into service this week during a Wet Down & Push Back Ceremony at Fire Station 11 on North Clyde Avenue, marking an expansion of the city’s firefighting and emergency response capabilities.
The new engine is not a replacement but an additional unit, joining Engine 12, Engine 13, Engine 14, and Squad 11 as the department’s fifth suppression unit. City officials said the addition strengthens coverage across Kissimmee as the community continues to see growth in both population and development.
“This new engine improves our ability to provide safety for people and property,” Fire Chief Jim Walls said. “It expands our coverage and strengthens our service to the Kissimmee community.”
Engine 11 is equipped for more than fire suppression. In addition to delivering water through pumps and hoses, it carries advanced life support equipment for medical emergencies and transports firefighters and tools for rescue, ventilation, and scene support operations.
Friday’s ceremony honored long-standing firefighting traditions. As part of the “wet down,” Engine 11 was sprayed with water before entering service, while the “push back” saw firefighters, city staff, and community members join together to roll the new vehicle into its bay. Both rituals date back to the era of horse-drawn fire equipment and remain symbols of teamwork and pride in the fire service.
With Engine 11 now in service, the Kissimmee Fire Department continues its efforts to expand resources and maintain strong emergency response as the city grows.
