Firefighter Operations: Lines Explained

A hose line used to protect the exit route of firefighters operating inside a structure. It should be longer and have the same or higher flow rate than the initial line, in case the primary line is too short to reach the fire or lacks sufficient water flow.

A backup line should be stretched at least one length longer than the line it is protecting.

A backup line should have the same or greater flow rate as the initial line.

A hose line used specifically to help extinguish the fire, rather than protecting the firefighters' escape route.

The terms 'backup line' and 'second line' should not be used interchangeably, as they have distinct roles on the fireground.

Clear communication on the fireground is crucial when requesting additional hose lines, ensuring everyone understands their role in suppressing the fire and protecting the escape route.

The primary purpose of a backup line is to ensure a safe escape route for firefighters operating inside a structure.

A second line is primarily used to help extinguish the fire, alongside the initial line.

Clear communication is crucial to ensure firefighters understand their roles, whether providing fire suppression or protecting the escape route.

A backup line should be stretched at least one length longer than the line it is protecting to ensure sufficient reach in case the primary line falls short.