How to Use a Hose Reel Drum in a Fire Emergency: Guide

The fire safety device named fire hose reel drum exists prominently in numerous buildings and workplaces to control small fires. The implementation of fire hose reels creates an effective way for people to fight fires in their early stages. Having proper skills in the use of hose reel drums during emergencies leads to better outcomes in critical situations. The following information explains How to Use Hose Reel Drum properly together with safety measures and mistakes to prevent.

What is a Fire Hose Reel Drum?

The fire hose reel drum operates through its cylindrical design by keeping a firefighting hose inside to provide water for extinguishing fires. Fire hose reel drums exist as wall-mounted systems that receive water supply through pressurized pressure. The reel system lets you smoothly unwind the hose to direct it toward active flames. Fire hose reel drums are installed most often in commercial establishments educational buildings and industrial sites that demonstrate fire hazards.

How to Use a Hose Reel Drum in a Fire Emergency: Step-by-Step Guide

One should know the complete procedure to use a hose reel drum in a fire emergency. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to use a hose reel drum.

1. Locate the Fire Hose Reel

    •   Locate the closest fire hose reel drum that is installed within your building.
    •   The way to the reel must remain unblocked for safe usage.

2. Turn on the Water Supply

    •   Operate the stop valve which is positioned near the reel by rotating it toward the open position.
    •   The hose will receive a water supply as it needs to be ready for operation.

3. Unwind the Hose

    •   When pulling the hose forward from the drum you should maintain a smooth motion to avoid messes.
    •  Direct the hose pathway directly to the fire spot by keeping it straight throughout.

4. Direct the Nozzle Toward the Fire

    •   Both hands should grip the nozzle tightly.
    •   The application proceeds best when you stand in a protected location and direct the stream to the foundation of the fire.

5. Open the Nozzle and Start Spraying

    •   You can release water through the nozzle by using either the twisting motion or pulling the lever.
    •   Begin to sweep the hose in both directions while ensuring the area remains fully covered by water.

6. Control and Extinguish the Fire

    •   Maintain hose water flows until all fire flames are extinguished.
    •   Examine the area to check for all remaining embers and sparks.

7. Shut Off the Water Supply

    •   Use the stop valve only after completing use.
    •   The hose should be wrapped carefully onto the reel so it is ready for upcoming instances.

Safety Tips While Using a Hose Reel Drum

Use a fire hose reel drum carefully to avoid hurting yourself and allowing a fire to spread. Knowing how to use a hose reel drum will help to prevent accidents. Here are some safety tips: 

1) Ensure Proper Water Pressure: 

    •   Before operating the hose you should verify that the water supply pressure meets the requirements.

2) Use the Right Firefighting Technique: 

    •   Drive the water stream toward the base of the fire to stop its growth.
    •   Do not use water to extinguish electric fires because this method will be ineffective; instead, employ a fire extinguisher.

3) Keep the Exit Path Clear: 

    •   It is unsafe to block any escape pathway when operating the fire hose reel drum.
    •   Make sure that you maintain a position from which you can get away at any time.

4) Wear Protective Gear: 

    •   The protective clothing together with gloves will help you avoid burn injuries when possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

People normally fail to utilize the hose reel drums safely even when they understand the correct usage methods. Here are some common mistakes:

1) Delaying Action

    •   The fire hose reel drum needs immediate action to prevent the fire growth.
    •   The customers should not postpone help to authorities when the fire remains under control.

2) Incorrect Hose Handling

    •   Rolling or bending the hose tube will decrease the flow of water.
    •   Turn on water after pulling out a sufficient length of the hose from the reel.

3) Using it on Electrical Fires

    •   A fire hose reel drum should not be applied on electrical fires because conducting water creates additional risks for firefighters.

4) Forgetting to Shut Off the Water

    •   One should always ensure the stop valve is closed to avoid flooding and wastage after a fire has been put out. 

Conclusion

Knowing How to Use Hose Reel Drum in emergencies creates a vital difference between life and death in fire situations. The fire hose reel drum requires the right operation procedures to achieve maximum water supply efficiency. The outlined procedures together with safety instructions combined with proper mistake prevention will lead to fast and effective fire control methods. Stay prepared, stay safe!