Fire Hose Reel Operation Steps

Before diving into how to use a fire hose reel, it’s critical to first clarify two key points: the different types of fire hose reels available, and the specific fire scenarios where they’re safe to use.   Fire hose reels are designed exclusively for fighting Class A fires—these are fires involving ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cloth, cardboard, or furniture. Their core function is to deliver a steady, controllable stream of water to suppress such fires. Importantly, they must never be used near flammable liquids (oil, gasoline, cooking fat) or electrical equipment. Using them in these cases risks spreading the fire (for liquids) or causing life-threatening electric shock (for electrical fires).   Two Common Types of Fire Hose Reels     Understanding the type of reel you’re working with helps ensure smooth operation during emergencies.   1. Wall-Mounted Fixed Fire Hose Reel     This is the most widely used type in New Zealand. It is permanently installed at a designated location (e.g., along building corridors, near exit points) and directly connected to the building’s main water supply via dedicated pipes.   A key maintenance note: Always keep the area 1 meter on either side of the reel clear of debris, boxes, or equipment. This ensures the reel can be fully accessed and operated without obstruction during an emergency.   2. Swing Arm Fire Hose Reel     While it shares similarities with the fixed wall-mounted type (e.g., connection to the main water supply), the swing arm reel has a distinct design: its entire assembly is mounted on a large, sturdy hinge, often housed within a dedicated cabinet.   The biggest advantage of this type is its flexibility: in an emergency, you can swing the entire reel outward from the wall. This allows the hose to be extended more easily and follow your movement as you position yourself to fight the fire, reducing strain on the hose and improving control.   Step-by-Step Instructions to Operate a Fire Hose Reel     Follow these steps carefully to ensure safe and effective use:   Break the tamper-proof seal (if present): Many reels have a seal to prevent unauthorized use—remove this first to access the reel and hose. Open the main stop valve: Locate the stop valve (usually near the base of the reel) and turn it fully to the “open” position. This connects the reel to the water supply. Extend the hose to the fire: Pull the hose out to the distance needed to reach the fire. Unlike flat hoses, you do not need to unroll the entire length—only extend what’s necessary (this saves time and reduces clutter). Turn on the nozzle: Grip the nozzle firmly, then twist or squeeze it (depending on the design) to release the water. Start with a gentle flow to adjust your aim, then increase as needed. Target the base of the fire: Always direct the water stream at the bottom of the flames, not the top. This attacks the source of the fire (the burning fuel) rather than just the smoke or flames, which is critical for extinguishing it quickly. Tip: Use only enough water to put out the fire. Excess water can cause secondary damage to property, electronics, or documents. Shut off the nozzle after extinguishing: Once the fire is out, close the nozzle first to stop the water flow. Rewind the hose partially: With a small amount of water still in the hose (this makes it more flexible), rewind it onto the reel in neat, even layers. Avoid pulling too tightly—this prevents kinks or damage to the hose. Close the main stop valve: After the hose is partially rewound, turn off the stop valve to 切断 the water supply to the reel. Release remaining pressure: Open the nozzle again briefly (over a bucket, if possible) to release any leftover water pressure in the hose. This prevents the hose from bulging or leaking when fully rewound. Secure the nozzle and finish rewinding: Close the nozzle, fully rewind the hose until it’s neatly stored, and place the nozzle back into its holder on the reel.   For more detailed information about fire hose reel maintenance, compliance with local fire safety codes, or choosing the right reel for your space, feel free to contact us.