Osceola County Fire Rescue’s new Engine 55 was put into service Wednesday morning as local firefighters and Osceola County Commissioner Fred Hawkins Jr. reflect time-honored traditions of the fire service with a “Push Back” ceremony. During the first part of the ceremony, firefighters washed, then dried off the new engine.
 
The new engine represents more than a half-million dollar investment in public safety. Following the current standard, the new Pierce Impel Pumper will result in increased reliability added features and lower maintenance costs as it replaces an older model with 13 years of service and 235,000 miles on its odometer.
 
Once the new Engine 55 was washed and dried off, firefighters pushed the new vehicle into the firehouse, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century when horses could not properly back into the station with the wagon attached.

In recent years in addition to new bunker gear, vital-sign telemetry monitors, self-contained breathing apparatus and Jaws of Life, Osceola County has made nearly $30 million in investments in public safety, including the training center, new stations, and future sites, equipment, such as engines, rescues, and other trucks. Public safety is the number one priority for members of the Osceola County Commission

“Public safety is always my top priority and the County’s recent actions demonstrate this intent. The new Engine, along with the rescue we put into service here a few months ago, are evidence of a commitment to the best equipment, the best training and best facilities for our first-responders,” said Fred Hawkins, Jr., the District 5 County Commissioner, which is home base for the new engine. “District 5 residents are getting their fair share of life-saving resources that will serve our community for at least the next decade. It’s all part of our strategic planning to ensure our first-responders are ready for any and all emergencies.”

Positively Osceola would like to thank Osceola County’s Fire Rescue division for making a positive difference and for its continued dedication to protecting the residents and visitors of Osceola County.