Understanding Fire Hoses and Their Types

Jan 17, 2025

What is Fire Hose? Types & Methods of Rolling Fire Hose

Introduction

  • Firefighting is a challenging field that relies on proper tools and equipment.
  • The fire hose is a crucial, complex, and versatile tool in firefighting.

What is a Fire Hose?

  • Specialized high-pressure tube that transports water or fire suppressants.
  • Can be connected to a fire truck, water pump, or indoor plumbing systems.
  • Operational pressure: 8-20 bar (800-2000 kPa or 116-290 psi).
  • Burst pressure capacity: up to 72 bar (7200 kPa or 1036 psi).

Construction

  • Made with woven fabric coated with rubber or PVC.
  • Outer layer: abrasion-resistant, tolerates UV light.
  • Inner layer: compatible with transported substances (water, foam, etc.).

Sizes

  • Diameters include: 25mm, 38mm, 50mm, 65mm, 80mm, 100mm.
  • Typical length: 30-50 meters.

How does a Fire Hose Work?

  • Uses water pressure to extinguish fires.
  • Connected to a water source such as a fire hydrant or pump.
  • The nozzle releases water under high pressure to disrupt and extinguish fires.

Different Types of Fire Hoses

  • Attack Hose: Used directly on fires, light, flexible, 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter.
  • Supply Hose: Larger diameter (3.5 to 5 inches), moves water from hydrants to fire engines.
  • Forestry Hose: Lightweight for wildfires, handles outdoor conditions.
  • Booster Hose: Rubber-covered, for small fires, diameters of 0.75 and 1 inch.
  • Suction Hoses: Connects engines to water sources, handles vacuum pressures.
  • Relay and Supply Hoses: Large-diameter (3.5 or 5 inches), for long distances.
  • Occupant Use Hoses: For building occupants, typically 1.5 inches in diameter, 100 feet long.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fire Hose

Advantages

  • Effectiveness: Delivers high-pressure agents effectively.
  • Versatility: Useful in various situations and fire types.
  • Ease of Use: Straightforward with training.
  • Portability: Lightweight and can be easily transported.

Disadvantages

  • Water Supply: Requires significant water availability.
  • High Winds: May affect trajectory of water/foam.
  • Potential Damage: Susceptible to sharp objects, heat, chemicals.
  • Manual Labor: Handling can be physically demanding.

Different Methods of Rolling Fire Hose

  • Straight Roll: Simple, flat roll from male end.
  • Donut Roll: Folded in half, rolled towards open ends.
  • Twin Donut Roll: Similar to donut roll for larger hoses, compact.
  • Self-Locking Donut Roll: Includes carrying loop.
  • Horse Shoe Roll: Folded ends rolled towards the middle.

Conclusion

  • Comprehensive understanding of fire hoses is crucial for effective firefighting.
  • Knowledge of structure, types, and rolling methods improves emergency response and equipment maintenance.
  • Essential for firefighters, safety officers, and building managers.