Tuesday morning, May 21, 2019, Osceola County Rescue held a “Push Back” ceremony, which was held at Osceola County Station 72 in Celebration as the new Fire Engine 71 and Tower Truck 72 are put into service. County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry along with Fire Cheif Robert Sorenson spoke before joining the Osceola County Firefighters as they readied the new fire apparatuses with time-honored traditions of the fire service – the wet-down and push-back.

The two pieces of equipment represent a $1.7 million investment in public safety. Following the current standard, the new Pierce Impel Pumper (Engine 71) will result in increased reliability, added features and lower maintenance costs as it replaces an older model with 14 years of service and 230,000 miles on its odometer. Tower 72 replaces a 16-year old unit that has logged 315,000 miles. The tower is a critical piece of fire-fighting apparatus that can be used for elevated rescues and as a working platform with two nozzles to apply water to a fire.

“It is important to me that our homes, property, and lives are safe. That’s why it is vital that our first responders have the best training, best facilities, and best equipment,” said Peggy Choudry, County Commissioner of  District 1. “I think the people of Celebration and District 1 can be proud that these resources will be serving them for many years to come.”

During the first part of the ceremony firefighters washed, then dried off the new engine. Then 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.

Osceola County’s Fire Rescue division continues to invest in life-saving training and equipment. 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.