In today's fire service, fast water is at the forefront of tactics. The focus of this class is to stretch lines quickly and efficiently. Skill stations include the minuteman load and variations, stretching around and between obstacles such as cars and porches, extending lines, and showing the advantages and disadvantages of some appliances. There is also a skill station on hose bundles and multiple options for using hose straps, standpipe hookup, and high-rise bundle options. The last skill station involves vertical stretching; multiple areas are covered such as well stretching, hook stretching, and rope stretches. Engine placement and estimating the stretch are discussed. Students learn options that have been proven through street experience and how to overcome common mistakes. The takeaway message is, “There is only one way to get good at stretching hoselines—get out and stretch hoselines.”
