Understanding Nozzle Reaction: A Guide for Firefighters
May 30, 2025
Nozzle reaction is the backward force from hose nozzles. Learn what causes it, how to calculate it, and how to control it for safer operation.
Firefighting Basics
TFT’s Firefighting Glossary: Terms used in the firefighting industry
August 14, 2024
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z A Aerial: An […]
The Broken Stream in Firefighting: What is it and Why do We Use It?
October 3, 2023
One of the many firefighting techniques employed by firefighters is the use of a broken stream. A broken stream can happen purposefully and be used effectively on the fire ground. They can also happen accidentally and be caused by nozzle damage or debris. In this article, we are going to explore the broken stream when […]
How to Choose a Firefighting Nozzle Type
August 28, 2023
What do you consider before choosing a nozzle type for your firefighting operations? How do you narrow down the choices to get the right tool for the jobs you will face in the future? It can be tough to know what you need, but it isn’t impossible! Let’s look at the types of firefighting nozzles […]
Are Ground Monitors Safe?
July 31, 2023
12 Questions to Ask About Your Portable Monitor Are you checking out different portable monitors and trying to choose the best one for your needs? Are you just diving into the world of ground monitors? If so, you’re probably wondering about safety, personnel requirements, and other elements that can help you make the best choice. […]
What is a Fixed Flow Firefighting Nozzle?
July 3, 2023
A fixed flow nozzle gives you a single flow capacity on the fire ground. These nozzles can be combination, giving you a straight stream and fog pattern option, or not. Smooth bores are one type of fixed flow nozzle, but not every fixed flow nozzle is a smooth bore. We talk about Smooth Bore nozzles […]
What is a Selectable Firefighting Nozzle?
June 26, 2023
The selectable firefighting nozzle is a handline nozzle capable of giving you flow options on the fire ground. If you are wondering how they work and whether it is right for you, keep reading! What is a Selectable Nozzle? A selectable nozzle is a firefighting nozzle with multiple flow options available to you. Your […]
What is an Automatic Nozzle?
June 19, 2023
The automatic nozzle is the youngest fire nozzle design on the market. The design for it was sketched on a dinner napkin in 1968 by Clyde McMillan, the founder of Task Force Tips. McMillan developed the nozzle to make your job as a firefighter easier and safer. There are a lot of opinions out there […]
What is a Smooth Bore Firefighting Nozzle?
June 13, 2023
For over a century, the smooth bore nozzle has been a cornerstone of firefighting, providing reliability, simplicity, and unmatched performance on the fireground. As technology advances, this classic tool remains highly regarded, thanks to its ability to deliver a powerful, solid water stream with minimal effort. But what makes the smooth bore nozzle so enduring […]
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Nozzles: Exploring the Differences
June 8, 2023
One-piece and two-piece nozzles have long been used in firefighting, providing effective solutions for various situations. As you explore your nozzle options, it is important to recognize the distinctions between these two types of nozzles and the benefits and disadvantages they offer in different firefighting scenarios. Let’s dive into the advantages and disadvantages of each. […]
What Does a Nozzle Change Cost?
May 3, 2023
If you are considering a nozzle change, you might be wondering about the costs you can expect. Many people will expect the cost of buying nozzles. Are you thinking about other costs that may be associated with evaluation and implementation of the new nozzles? In this article we are going to cover five costs you […]
What is an Intake Valve?
February 13, 2023
Have you ever wondered about the differences in types of intake valves? Ball intake valves (BIVs), piston intake valves, butterfly/wafer style intake valves – what does it all mean? What are the differences in how they work? In this article we’re going to talk about the purpose of an intake valve and walk you through […]
7 Hydraulic Calculations Every Firefighter Needs to Know
January 23, 2023
Fire Flow When calculating fire flow, two common formulas are used. The Iowa Fire Flow formula estimates flow for fire control in the largest open area, not full extinguishment. The NFA formula applies to interior attacks in structures with ceilings ≤10 ft. Both help estimate needed fire flow during pre-planning, though results may vary. These […]
Understanding the K-Factor of Your Nozzle
December 19, 2022
As familiar as the subject of water flow may be to some, there are still those that do not have the opportunity to apply it daily. As a result, they may not be as familiar with water flow as those of us who do. One comment that I often hear is that fixed and selectable […]
How to Choose Your Firefighting Nozzle and Hose
December 12, 2022
During a hose and nozzle demonstration, you have one goal: find the right solution for your fire department. You can expect your sales rep to guide you through the selection process with expert insight and advice. Everyone will conduct their demonstration a little bit differently, but in general, they should all start with the nozzle. […]