The Cayce Fire Department introduced its new fire engine at a “Washdown” ceremony, Thursday morning, at the Cayce Fire Department. The Washdown ceremony is a tradition that dates back to the 1890s when a new pumper wagon was pressed into service. The horse and the fire wagon were washed down when it was added to the fire department. 

The new, or 2025 Pierce Enforcer engine, has a bigger engine and additional features compared to the engine it replaces. It can carry 4 firefighters, with a higher-capacity water tank and it sprays foam that is used to combat fuel fires. The new engine also has extraction equipment, said Cayce Fire Chief Steven Bullard. 

“This new engine is a workhorse,” Bullard said. He also said it replaced a 1999 model fire truck. The new engine has a better cooling system for overheated firefighters and LED lighting for better visibility. 

Bullard said 2010 was the last time the Cayce Fire Department brought in a new engine. 

Cayce City Manager Mike Conley thanked Cayce City Council for giving emergency  response crews the equipment needed to serve the community. 

Cayce City Councilman Phil Carter said the new engine will help with the department’s ISO rating and benefit in lower insurance rates for Cayce residents. 

CFD Chaplain Scott Hall blessed the truck with a prayer. The new engine was pushed back in by firefighters after the washdown.

The 1999 engine that the new engine replaced could possibly be donated the the Lexington Two Innovation Center so that firefighting students ca use it for training purposes.