On Thursday, Clark County’s Fire District 6 unveiled its new fire engine at its Felida Station during an honorary “Push-In” ceremony. The engine’s construction was a two-year-long joint effort between La Gear Engineers, Pierce Manufacturing and members of District 6; it will primarily serve Lake Shore and Felida. After remarks from Fire Chief Kristan Maurer, community members and District 6’s fire crew gathered to push the new $800,000 engine into the station, indicating the beginning of its service to the community. Maurer, who was appointed fire chief in January 2020, regards the ceremony as an acknowledgement of community support.

“This ceremony is a way to recognize what our community has done to support us,” she said. “We look at these events as gifts from the community.” Assistant Chief David Russell, who has been a part of District 6 for four years, concurred. He believes the new engine will continue to efficiently serve the community. “I hope this engine specifically will help keep the community safer,” said Russell. “By making this engine ergonomic for our firefighters, it will result in faster response times and only increase the safety of our citizens. Our ‘why’ is to make the community better.” “Push-In” ceremonies honor the traditions of fire crews during the 1800s. Fire crews used to dismount gear from horse-drawn equipment and push their wagons into the station.

Although District 6’s fleet does not yet include a ladder truck, one is set to be delivered around 2025. “All these firefighters put their lives on the line every day to save lives,” said Maurer. “I believe we have some of the best men and women in this district serving our community.”

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