If you have a large facility, you may need to have firefighting equipment like fire hoses and fire hose connections in several strategic areas. Hopefully, you’ll never need this kind of equipment, but if you do, you want it to be in the best possible condition so you can avoid major damages from fire. Here are some helpful tips for maintaining your hoses and connections, to give you the best possible outcome from fire.
Storing
Several factors can affect rubber type hoses, such as:
- Humidity
- Heat
- Cold
- UV light exposure
- Oil
- Solvents
- Chemical fumes and liquids
- Pests like rodents and insects
To protect against climate conditions, consider placing them in the best possible area. Avoid areas that have heaters as this could cause problems over time. You may need to provide protective covers also. As soon as you are finished with a hose, it should be drained and placed back on the reel. Make sure to squeeze as much water as possible during the process of rewinding.
Inspections and Testing
Since so many things can damage hoses, it’s important to check them periodically. Look for signs of pest damage and cracking. You may need to test hoses and fire hose connections from time to time, and it’s important to leave this task to trained and experienced people.
Do not use compressed air for testing as it could present safety hazards. Hoses have to be properly secured before testing to make sure they do not whip about and cause injuries.
Replacement
When it’s time to replace your firefighting equipment, make sure to choose a company that has an established reputation in the industry. They only carry the top brands of fire hose connections and hoses, and they can give you the most affordable prices.
