How to maintain your fire hose
A fire hose is an essential tool for firefighting—no fire response plan works without it. Yet many people don’t know how to operate a fire hose properly. This lack of knowledge can lead to serious losses if a fire breaks out, especially in high-rise buildings. To help you act quickly and safely, here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to using a fire hose, plus key precautions to follow.
Step-by-Step: How to Use a Fire Hose
Access the fire hydrant and tools first
Open the fire hydrant door. Then take out the layflat hose (the flexible, flat hose stored inside) and the water gun.
Inspect the fire hose and fittings
Check if the layflat hose has any tears, holes, or cracks. Also examine the fire hose fittings (the metal parts that connect the hose to the hydrant or water gun) for damage. If either is broken, do not use them—find a replacement.
Lay the hose toward the fire
Unroll the layflat hose in a straight line pointing to the fire. Avoid twisting the hose, as twists can block water flow.
Connect the hose to the fire hydrant
Take the end of the layflat hose that’s closer to the hydrant. Align its fitting with the hydrant’s outlet. Insert the fitting’s buckle into the hydrant’s chute, then turn the fitting clockwise to tighten it securely.
Connect the other end to the water gun
Take the opposite end of the layflat hose. Attach its fitting to the water gun using the same method as the hydrant—insert the buckle into the chute and twist clockwise to tighten.
Hold the water gun steady
After all connections are tight, have at least 2 people grip the water gun firmly. Aim the gun at the fire, but never aim it at people. High-pressure water from a fire hose can cause severe injuries.
Turn on the hydrant and fight the fire
Slowly open the fire hydrant valve until it’s fully open. Once water flows through the hose, aim the water gun directly at the root of the fire—this is where the fire starts, and targeting it will put the fire out fastest.
Related posts
