1. Choose the Right Fire Hose Type for the Job
Not all fire hoses resist kinking equally. Opt for kink-resistant fire hoses for high-use areas. For tight spaces, pick flexible lightweight hoses. While stiff hoses are more likely to twist. Avoid using old and brittle hoses. Because their rigid material kinks easily and breaks under pressure.
2. Unroll and Deploy the Fire Hose Correctly
Never yank or drag a coiled fire hose across rough surfaces. First, place the hose roll on a flat area. Unroll it slowly, walking backward to let the hose lay straight. As you unroll, check for loops which will turn into kinks once water flows. If you’re using a hose reel, pull the hose out smoothly, not in quick jerks. Jerky pulls twist the hose inside the reel.
3. Maintain Proper Tension During Use
When operating the fire hose, keep a steady, gentle tension on the line. Don’t let the hose slack—slack leads to loops that kink. If you need to move the hose, walk with it instead of pulling it sideways. For longer hoses, have a helper guide the middle section. This stops the hose from folding over and forming kinks.
4. Store the Fire Hose to Avoid Kink Damage
After use, recoil the fire hose properly. Never leave a hose crumpled or folded. Because permanent kinks form when the hose stays bent for hours. Store recoiled hoses in a cool, dry cabinet. Besides, avoid hanging them from sharp hooks. Because hooks can pinch the hose and create weak spots that kink later.