Royse City Fire Department to host ‘Wet Down’ Ceremony for Engine 81

(ROYSE CITY, TX – Oct. 21, 2019) The Royse City Fire Department will host its first ever “Wet-Down and Push-In” Ceremony, set for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5 at the Royse City Fire Department, 232 E. Main St. in Royse City.

The “Wet Down” ceremony is a fire service tradition dating back to the late 1800’s, originating during the transition between a hand-pump apparatus to the new mechanical pumps. The “Push-In” is for remembering the days when horse drawn fire engines had to be pushed back into their stations after a fire.

Come be part of history as Engine 81 is placed in service. During this timeless tradition they will be filling the new Engine with the water of the outgoing decommissioned Engine 5 and then spraying it down. All in attendance may then assist with drying our new Engine 81. There will be a blessing provided by a local pastor with all Royse City firefighters surrounding the apparatus. For the conclusion to the ceremony they will Push-In Engine 81 and hold the first “Tone Out” to officially place it in service.

Sweet Treats will be provided by SweetFace Sugar Shoppe & Bakery.

Blue Ribbon News staff report.

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