The BackUP "HEEL" Position

​Moving Hose Smart and Strong

Advancing a charged fire hose is one of the toughest jobs on the fireground. It takes strength, endurance, and smart body mechanics to move the line efficiently while conserving energy. The key is to use your larger muscle groups, not just your arms.

Start low and stay balanced. Keep your back straight, your core tight, and drive with your legs. Use your hips and body weight to push the hose forward instead of pulling with your arms. Work in short, controlled movements, pulling a section toward you, then advancing your body and the hose together.

Always communicate with your crew. The nozzle firefighter should lead with control while the backup firefighter feeds hose smoothly to prevent kinks or bunching. Every member of the line should move with a purpose and support each other’s progress.

Training should build real-world strength and technique. Practice in limited gear and the in full gear, simulate advancing charged lines through doors, around obstacles, and up stairs. Focus on movement, coordination, and endurance more than brute force.

Five Key Techniques

Stay low and drive from your legs.

Keep your core tight and your back straight.

Advance in short, smooth sections.

Communicate clearly with your crew.

Train for movement, control, and endurance.

REMEMBER: 
Hose advancement is not about strength alone. It is about technique, teamwork, and control. When firefighters use their larger muscles and proper form, they move the line faster, safer, and with less fatigue. Remember that if you are struggling with advancing lines, then you MUST get out and train more! Technique! Technique! Technique!

Again guys, THIS IS A TOOL! We don't advocate for always flowing and moving! In fact, most of your hoseline movement and management will not include flowing and moving, but you need this as a tool in the toolbag! GET AFTER IT! Be about it! WE are here for THEM!