Using A Fire Hose Nozzle Correctly

By Teri Farley


A fire hose is something that is used to fight fires. The hoses are made as high pressure devices that spray water when the fire hose nozzle is opened. They be outdoor or indoor hoses. Those found outside will be attached to either a firefighter's vehicle or a hydrant through which the water is obtained. Indoor hoses could be connected to the building's plumbing system.

Water pipes that are seen in use by firefighters today originally came about in the late 1860's. Before this time, fires were brought down with only buckets of water or more primitive types of hand-pumped water pipes. The first pipe was made of leather that was sewn together to form a length of about fifty feet. Although it was not as pressurized as the hoses in use today, it did help more than a bucket. Its main problem was that the sewing was not very strong, and tended to burst.

Another problem was their weight. People soon found that hoses of linen were much lighter, and could be made to be waterproof as well. Other heavier types of hoses included those that were layered with a rubber lining. In fact, several layers of rubber used to be added. Although they were completely waterproof, they were also cumbersome to use.

Hoses nowadays are manufactured from natural or synthetic materials. They will not rot, even if stored wet, and are lighter than the older versions. A number of varieties are made, for example, attack, forestry hoses, booster and suction hoses. All types have nozzles from which the water is sprayed. Although firefighters mainly use the spraying devices, it is useful to know how to operate them in case of an emergency situation.

You will need water, so the first thing to do is to switch on the water supply; should this be required. The pipe should unwind without a problem, so just hold onto the end and walk to the flames. The end is held in one hand, while your other hand will work the lever. The lever determines the quickness of the water spray. Stand feet apart in a stable position to anticipate the flow of water.

Pull the lever backwards so that the pipe is opened. Do this quite slowly so that the pressure of the water is not too great. Open it more if the stream is not strong enough.

As the water sprays move the water pipe in a figure of eight pattern, or a 'Z' pattern, and keep the main flow of water aimed at the lower part of the flames. Once the flames are extinguished, push the handle forward so that the water flow is cut-off. Do it quite slowly otherwise the pipe could jerk out of your hands.

Every once in a while the fire hose nozzle should be checked to make sure it is working. It should screw on firmly and be specific for the task. All other firefighting equipment should be checked as well, in order to be ready in case of fires.




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