Fire hoses are useful for putting out small fires caused by paper, textiles, wood, plastic, rubber, and cloth. The hoses are to be used only as an initial response to a flame. If used appropriately, fire hoses can help put out small fires quickly, minimising damage.
One must proceed cautiously when using fire hose reels to put out fires in Australia. Here are a few things to remember before using a fire hose reel.
Things to Keep in Mind While Using a Fire Hose Reel
- Alert everyone in your vicinity
- Activate the emergency alarm systems
- Contact the Fire Brigade immediately
- Identify the fuel of the flame
- Don’t use fire hose reels for fires occurring in Electrical Appliances: Water is a good conductor of electricity, and spraying water on equipment connected to the power supply could end up in disaster.
- Don’t use fire hose reels for fire caused by flammable liquids: Inflammable liquids may float on water, further spreading fire and endangering lives.
- Ensure you have a clear path to the nearest exit
Instructions for Using a Fire Hose Reel
- Break the anti-tamper seal to access the fire hose reel (if fitted.)
- Turn on the water supply at the stop valve.
- Reel out the hose to the appropriate distance from the fire.
- Turn the nozzle into the open position to allow the water to flow.
- Aim the hose at the base of the fire from a safe distance.
- Perform a sweeping action to extinguish the fire thoroughly.
- Don’t spray excess water once the fire is extinguished, as it might cause secondary damage.
- Turn off the nozzle to cut off the water flow.
- Rewind the hose in even layers
- Turn off the water supply at the stop valve.
- Open the nozzle to release the excess pressure in a bucket,
- Close the nozzle and place the header back in its original position.
Fire Hose Reel Inspection and Testing Requirements in Australia
In accordance with the fire hose reel Australian Standard (AS 2441:2005), regular fire hose reel inspection and fire hose reel testing are mandatory to ensure optimal performance and safety compliance. It is recommended that all fire hose reels be inspected and tested at least once every six months by a certified professional. This includes checking for:
- Leaks or ruptures in the hose
- Proper water pressure and flow
- Functional nozzle and stop valve
- Hose reel mounting and bracket stability
Regular inspection ensures that the equipment is always ready to use in case of an emergency.
How to Use a Fire Hose Reel in Australia: Local Considerations
When learning how to use a fire hose reel in Australia, it’s important to consider the unique fire risks in different states, particularly in bushfire-prone regions like New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia.
According to recent Fire and Rescue NSW data, over 4,500 residential fires were reported in the last year, highlighting the importance of early intervention tools like fire hose reels.
Fire hose reels use should always align with your workplace or facility’s fire safety plan, and staff should undergo proper training to ensure confident and safe usage during emergencies.
Poor-quality fire hose reels can result in premature ruptures, abrasion, and other defects. These kinds of hoses can fail in crucial moments, endangering the lives of your occupants or employees. Keep your properties safe with heavy-duty and UV-stable fire hose reels. FSP Oz Products is one of Australia’s leading fire hose reel manufacturers and suppliers. Contact our experts if you require further assistance or guidance on safeguarding your properties.
