Palm Springs Fire Dept. welcomes new engine with historic push in ceremony
Kiera Seapy
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Palm Springs Fire Department welcomed its new engine with a historic push-in ceremony. On Thursday morning, firefighters, city leaders, and community members will gather at Palm Springs Fire Station to “push in” a new fire engine as it officially enters service.
This tradition dates back to back to the 1800s, with horse-drawn fire equipment. When returning to the station, the horses could not easily back the wagons into the narrow station bays. It continues today as a way to honor generations of firefighters who came before them.
Captain Ronald Skyberg, the Public Information Officer and Captain for the Palm Springs Fire Department explained how the city is “going to get a fire engine that doesn’t have any mechanical issues that is running smoothly, efficiently, and what it’s going to do is it’s going to provide a resources, a resource that is always available”.
This new fire engine will also help firefighters respond very quickly and reliably to different emergencies. Such as medical emergencies, structure firers, and other calls throughout the city.
Fire Chief Paul Alvarado from the Palm Springs Fire Department said how “here in Palm Springs we’re very progressive, are always leaning forward, but we’ll never forget the past.”
Palm Springs Fire officials explained how today also is about the people they serve, the community. Their mission remains the same to serve the community and keep all of their residents safe.