West Buncombe, NC. Today marked a significant milestone for the West Buncombe Fire Department as the new Engine 5 was officially placed into service at Station 1, located at 549 Old County Home Road.

The department honored the occasion with a traditional push-in ceremony, a long-standing fire service custom dating back to the days of horse-drawn apparatus. In that era, firefighters would manually push engines back into the station after returning from calls. Today, the ceremony symbolizes unity, pride, and the shared responsibility of placing a new piece of equipment into service for the protection of the community.

Following the push-in, a blessing was offered over the new engine, asking for protection over the firefighters who will ride it and for its safe and effective service to the residents of West Buncombe.

In a powerful and immediate testament to its purpose, Engine 5 responded to its first emergency call within just 15 minutes of being placed in service.

The new engine, which was ordered two years ago, now serves as the first-out apparatus for Station 1, enhancing the department’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.

Fire Chief Dennis Fagnant reflected on the significance of the new addition:

“This truck represents far more than steel and equipment; it represents our commitment to this community and to each other. Every hose, every tool, and every inch of this engine was thoughtfully designed to help us do our job better and come home safely. I’m incredibly proud of what this truck stands for and what it will do for the citizens of West Buncombe.”

Chief Fagnant also extended his gratitude to those who made the project possible, including the department’s specification committee for their dedication to designing a highly capable, mission-ready apparatus, and the Board of Directors for their continued support and investment in the department’s future.

Engine 5 now stands ready to serve, backed by tradition, built with purpose, and already proven in action.