What Are the Different Types of Fire Hoses and Their Applications?

Fire hoses are one of the most vital components of firefighting equipment. They serve as the essential medium for delivering water or fire retardant from the water source to the fire. However, not all fire hoses are created equal. There are multiple types, each designed for specific use cases, environments, and pressures.

1. Overview of Fire Hose Functionality
Fire hoses are flexible, high-pressure tubes constructed to carry water or other fire-suppressing agents. They connect to:

Hydrants

Fire engines

Standpipes

Pumps

Nozzles or monitors

Depending on their classification, fire hoses can either supply water or distribute it over a fire.

2. Main Types of Fire Hoses
2.1. Attack Hose
Definition: Attack hoses are used to directly combat fires by transporting water from the pump to the nozzle.

Key Features:

Designed to withstand high pressures (up to 400 PSI)

Typically made of synthetic fibers with rubber or thermoplastic linings

Highly flexible for maneuverability inside buildings

Applications:

Interior firefighting

High-rise building fires

Structural and industrial fires

2.2. Supply Hose (or Relay Hose)
Definition: These hoses deliver large volumes of water from a hydrant or other source to the fire engine or pump.

Key Features:

Larger diameter (4–6 inches)

Lower pressure than attack hoses

Made for high flow rates, not direct firefighting

Applications:

Long-distance water transfer

Municipal and rural firefighting

Supporting fire suppression systems

2.3. Booster Hose
Definition: Booster hoses are small-diameter, rubber-covered hoses wound on reels and used for small fires.

Key Features:

Reinforced rubber jacket

Mounted on reels for quick deployment

Pressure rated around 300 PSI

Applications:

Brush fires

Small vehicle fires

Initial response in commercial buildings

2.4. Forestry Hose (Wildland Fire Hose)
Definition: Specially designed for fighting forest or wildland fires, these hoses are lightweight and highly portable.

Key Features:

Lightweight synthetic jacket

Smaller diameters (1–1.5 inches)

Easy to carry over rough terrain

Applications:

Wildland and forest fire operations

Mountainous or remote fire zones

Quick-strike fire lines

2.5. Reel Hose (First Aid Hose or Cabinet Hose)
Definition: Found in public buildings, factories, and shopping centers, reel hoses are coiled inside hose reels for immediate access.

Key Features:

Semi-rigid construction

Typically 19–25mm in diameter

Low-pressure use (usually connected to the building’s water system)

Applications:

Indoor fire emergencies

First response by civilians or security

Building code compliance for safety

2.6. Industrial Fire Hose
Definition: Designed for factories, shipyards, or chemical plants, these hoses meet higher performance and chemical resistance standards.

Key Features:

May have oil-resistant or chemical-resistant linings

Can handle hot water, steam, or foam agents

Made of reinforced nitrile rubber or EPDM

Applications:

Industrial fire protection systems

Refineries and petrochemical facilities

Shipboard fire control

3. Fire Hose Construction and Materials
Fire hoses are typically made of:

Outer jacket: Polyester or nylon fibers for strength and abrasion resistance

Inner lining: Rubber (EPDM, nitrile) or thermoplastic for water resistance

Couplings: Brass, aluminum, or stainless steel, available in threaded or quick-connect types

Hoses may be single jacketed or double jacketed:

Single Jacket: Lightweight, for lower-pressure or temporary use

Double Jacket: Durable, better for high-pressure or extended use

4.Specialty Fire Hoses
Some fire hoses are tailored for specific uses:

Foam Hoses: For use with foam fire suppression agents

Chemical Transfer Hoses: Resistant to corrosive liquids and vapors

High-rise Hoses: Lightweight and compact for vertical firefighting

5. Fire Hose Storage and Maintenance
Proper storage extends hose life and ensures readiness:

Store in cool, dry, UV-protected areas

Inspect for cracks, abrasions, and kinks regularly

Dry thoroughly after use to prevent mildew

Pressure test annually for safety

Fire hoses are indispensable tools in firefighting, and understanding the differences between each type is crucial for both safety and efficiency. From heavy-duty attack hoses battling building fires to lightweight forestry hoses used in wildland environments, every hose has a specific role to play.

Choosing the right fire hose depends on application, pressure requirements, mobility, and environmental conditions. With proper selection, use, and care, fire hoses can provide long-term, reliable service in protecting lives and property.