Osceola News Brief - Osceola County Puts Two New Engines Into Service

In accordance with the time-honored traditions of the fire service, Osceola Fire Rescue held a Wet-Down and Push Back ceremony, beginning with washing, then drying off the new engines. Firefighters then pushed the vehicles into the firehouse, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century.

"This ceremony of transferring old to new helps us to remember the past and focuses us on our duty," said Chief Robert Sorenson. "Now these engines are ready to help our firefighters protect the lives and property of Osceola County citizens."

The County approved $1.4 million for three new engines as part of this year's budget. The first, at Station 62, went into service earlier this month. In addition to new equipment, the County also is working to replace older fire stations, a process that began with the facility at Pleasant Hill Road and is continuing with the new Station 62 in BVL, which also gained a new engine company in 2016. Osceola County replaced all of its hydraulic rescue equipment (often referred to as the "Jaws of Life") with state-of-the-art gear in 2016.

"This is all evidence of board’s commitment to public safety and our drive to move Osceola forward," said Commission Chairman Brandon Arrington. "Better equipment means that our firefighters are better prepared to serve our community."