Fire department holds first ‘push-in’ ceremony

The Fallon/Churchill Volunteer Fire Department held its third annual street dance May 10 in front of the engine house on North Carson Street.

Along with the barbecue, ice cream, live DJ, fire safety funhouse and cornhole, the event included a “push-in” ceremony for the first time in the department’s history.

Fire Chief Jared Dooley said the “push-in” dates back to the 1800s when firefighters would unhitch the horses and push the apparatus back in to the station after a run. It became a tradition to invite the community to a “push-in” ceremony to celebrate the purchase of any new equipment.

Engines 2 and 4 were purchased in November as a direct result of a vote four years ago which approved to continue the property tax override. Along with expressing his thanks to the city of Fallon, Churchill County commissioners and the volunteer firefighters, Dooley said “the biggest thanks” goes to the city and county citizens for their support.

The 2023 WS Darley Co., fire engines represent the newest and best technology currently available, including that being used in the pump and foam. The trucks are 40 feet long and 12 feet high with 34 tons of fire suppression and 2700 gallon water tanks.

“In short, the best firemen deserve the best stuff and I don’t know any better firemen. Enjoy these engines, boys,” Dooley said.

The firefighters gathered as a group at the front and sides of Engine 2. Reiner Harper, command chaplain for Naval Air Station Fallon, said a blessing over the new engines and those who will use them to serve the community. Then they pushed Engine 2 into the station to a loud chorus of cheers and applause from the crowd.

Dooley said both Engines 2 and 4 are now on the front line as the department’s first-out firefighting apparatus.