Fire Department conducts “Push-In” for new fire engine

The St. Marys Fire Department conducted a fire truck “Push-In” ceremony on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, to recognize the arrival of the brand-new engine, a 2023 Freightliner Top Mount Enclosed Cab Pumper.

A time-honoured tradition among fire stations, a "Push-In" ceremony occurs when the fire department pushes a new fire truck into the station.

Dating back to the 17^th century, "Push-In" ceremonies originated when early hand-drawn fire engines and other apparatuses required hand pushing into the station after every call.

In the 18^th century, horse-drawn steam engines were used to help extinguish fires, but they could not be backed up into the station. The horses were disconnected, and the firefighters manually pushed the engine into the station.

In the 19^th century, motorized fire engines became popular and didn’t need to be pushed in. Firefighters have continued the tradition of pushing in new trucks to honour the "Push-In" ceremony.

The Fire Department's new engine has a 700-gallon water tank that can pump 1,050 Imperial gallons of water per minute and 30 gallons of A Class foam. The truck also features three different sized ladders, and over 2,400 feet of fire hose.

The new fire engine is replacing a Freightliner fire engine that was built in 1999. The old pumper served the community well but will be placed up for auction in the coming months.

“The services that the fire department provides have changed significantly over the last 20 years” said Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Edwards. “The engine has become a multi-purpose vehicle capable of mitigating a variety of emergencies besides fires. Fire engines are equipped with medical equipment, rescue tools, water rescue gear, power saws, and large fans to exhaust smoke and toxic gases."

“Our firefighters bravely face danger when entering a burning structure without hesitation,” said Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson. “This new fire truck will help our St. Marys firefighters continue to provide safe fire protection for everyone.”

About the new engine

The new engine is equipped with several enhancements over the model it is retiring including:

Enclosed cab with air conditioner/heater so the pump operator is protected from extreme weather elements
Ergonomic hose deployment and equipment storage
Added vehicle extrication tools for faster motor vehicle extrication
Lower emissions from battery-operated hand tools
Telescopic monitor nozzle with a handheld controller
Rear view camera system
Command light system with a handheld controller
Upgraded emergency flashing red and blue LED lights and sirens

The St. Marys Fire Department thanks the community and Council for their support and are proud to be equipped with the new truck to continue to keep residents safe.

Questions about the St. Marys Fire Department can be directed to randerson@town.stmarys.on.ca or 519-284-1752.

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Contact

Richard “Andy” Anderson | Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief
519-274-3939 | randerson@town.stmarys.on.ca