What is an Automatic Nozzle? An automatic firefighting nozzle is a variable flow, constant pressure nozzle capable of building a set amount of pressure within its flow range. The nozzle does this with a spring-loaded baffle that automatically alters the opening size at the exit of the nozzle. This allows it to build the appropriate […]
Firefighting foam plays a vital role in successful firefighting. Developed over a century ago to combat challenging oil fires resistant to water, this unique firefighting tool has evolved while retaining its core purpose.Today, it is still used to knock down and secure burning and unignited flammable liquids. Class A foams are also used on ordinary […]
It is no secret that as a firefighter or first responder, you are exposed to health risks and hazards regularly. One of the most talked about risks in firefighting today is air contamination. As a firefighter, you use equipment on scene and off to protect yourself from breathing in harmful materials. Volatile organic compounds, particulates, […]
As a firefighter or first responder, you take plenty of precautions to make sure you return home safely after a call. Using the proper gear on-scene is as important as ever, but what about in-cab and in-station after the call? Have you ever thought about using an air decontamination system to reduce cancer- and disease-causing […]
There are many health and safety concerns that you worry about in the fire service. Every day you ensure your gear is in good condition, verify that your hoses and firefighting nozzles are working properly, and check the apparatus for defects or issues. You know the importance of wearing an SCBA during a fire and […]
Remembering all the variables that make up an efficient firefighting attack line can be difficult. In the fire service, you’re probably aware of and have learned about the foundation of Fire. The foundational principle of fire is commonly taught by using the Fire Tetrahedron. We’re going to go over the Fire Tetrahedron below. Then we […]
In the fire service, it is often believed that a smoothbore has the highest impact force or that it is the hardest hitting nozzle. You may love a good smooth bore, but did you know that impact force doesn’t actually depend on the type of nozzle? Which Firefighting Nozzle Has the Highest Impact Force? […]
What is a Ball Valve? A ball valve is a valve that allows you to control the water through your firefighting nozzle. It is designed to be used fully open or fully closed, though some firefighters will gate the valve, or close it part way, to create turbulence and break their stream. What is a Slide […]
With hundreds of models of handheld fire hose nozzles from which to choose, the choice can be confusing and the decision making process often frustrating. Before investigating which nozzle may be an ideal choice for initial attack fire flow operations, one basic factor must be considered before all others: Determining the agency’s target fire flow will be critical to the overall […]
Sketched on a napkin in 1968, the automatic fire nozzle is the youngest nozzle type you’ll encounter in the fire service. So, how do they work and what makes them “automatic?” Let’s find out! What is an Automatic Firefighting Nozzle? An automatic nozzle is a variable flow, constant pressure firefighting nozzle. This means that […]
How Does a Selectable Firefighting Nozzle Work? A selectable nozzle allows you to change your flow rate on the fire ground without changing tips. In this video, you will learn more about how these nozzles work, how they relate to smooth bore tip sizes, and what happens if you change your GPM selection without communicating with […]
What is a Fixed Flow Nozzle? A fixed gallonage nozzle is a firefighting nozzle that provides a constant flow rate or gallonage and can flow a straight stream or fog pattern. These nozzles come in a range of pressure choices so that you can choose the option that is right for your fire department. How […]
