Pressure hoses are made from extremely resilient and resistant materials. High compressive strength, extreme resistance to UV light and ozone as well as full rot-resistance provide the polyester hoses with a virtually unlimited service life. This is only true, of course, if the pressure hoses are handled properly. A few things need to be noted with regard to use, cleaning, and storage.
Tips for handling and care
- Wind them up without kinks or twists
- Do not loop them on the ground or pull them over sharp edges
- Under no circumstances pull on hoses that are filled with water but not pressurized
- Never place them in pieces of broken glass, debris, or the embers of a fire
- Avoid contamination with corrosive or adhesive materials
- Cross roads at right angles and use hose bridges or hose overpasses
- Do not interrupt the flow of water in case of heavy frost
- Never roll-up or bend frozen hoses with force
- Do not throw hose couplings and protect them against contamination
- Place the hoses in the vehicle, so that abrasion is prevented during the trip
- Fire department hoses are suitable for water with a temperature of up to +80 °C
Tips for cleaning, drying, and storing
- After use, clean with water and a soft brush or a slack cleaner
- Soak heavily contaminated hoses beforehand
- Do not clean hoses with a high pressure cleaner
- Never brush hoses when dry
- Pressurize the hoses and mark damage
- After cleaning, dry immediately and carry out any repairs necessary
- Store hoses in the fire house or vehicle in a dry state only
- The hose store should be dry, well ventilated, free of frost, and protected against direct sunlight
- Avoid contact with cement or concrete
(Extract from the Austrian Federal Fire Brigade Association (ÖBFV) guidelines on the handling of pressure hoses)