Clearwater Regional Fire Rescue Services (CRFRS) invites the community to join them in celebrating a historic moment on Thursday, March 13, as it will mark the official “Push-In Ceremony” for the newest addition to the fire service fleet – Unit 604, a brand-new Rosenbauer 104’ Cobra Platform ladder truck.

The exciting event will showcase this state-of-the-art apparatus, which is the first of its kind in the CRFRS fleet. Equipped with a powerful Cummins X15 600hp engine and a Hale Qmax 1750 GPM pump, officials say the new truck will significantly enhance firefighting capabilities. It will allow for safe rescues from heights, elevated fire suppression efforts, and other rescue operations, all while providing a safer working platform for firefighters.

Following the ceremony, the truck will officially go into service at 8 p.m.

CRFRS Fire Chief John Liadis says there will be opportunity to view the new truck, take pictures and meet the firefighters and officers from CRFRS. “It’s a vital tool that will help us better serve our community, and we’re proud to mark this moment with a ceremony that honours our long-standing traditions.”

The Push-In Ceremony itself pays homage to the long history of fire rescue services. Historically, new fire trucks were pushed back into the station by hand, a tradition that dates back to the 17th century. Although modern fire trucks are too large to push physically, the tradition often continues with one firefighter backing the truck into the bay while the crew walks alongside, keeping the symbolic ceremony alive.

The event will offer children a chance to view the new ladder truck and explore inside. There will also be a speech from the Fire Chief, and a public radio announcement once the unit is officially in service.

The public is encouraged to attend and celebrate this milestone with CRFRS.

Event Details:

• What: Push-In Ceremony for Unit 604, Rosenbauer 104’ Cobra Platform Ladder Truck
• When: Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. (Truck goes into service at 8:00 p.m.)
• Where: Station 60, 4920 52nd Street, Rocky Mountain House, AB

For more information, visit www.clearwatercounty.ca or call 403-845-4444.