Florida Fire State Practice Exam

What do you use to clean the male end of a hose when it's pulled through tar on a scene?

1. Pressure washer

2. Wire brush

3. Solsid soap

4. Hose cleaner

The correct answer is: Wire brush

When dealing with tar or other similar debris on the male end of a hose, the most effective tool is a wire brush. This tool is designed to remove hard, stubborn material such as tar, which can easily adhere to the hose during firefighting operations. The bristles of the wire brush provide the necessary stiffness to scrape away the tar without damaging the hose itself. Employing a wire brush allows for thorough cleaning, ensuring that the coupling is free from any contaminants that could potentially affect the connection to other hoses or equipment. A clean connection is essential for maintaining proper water flow and system integrity during firefighting efforts. The other options may not be as suitable for this specific task. For instance, a pressure washer is effective for cleaning surfaces but may not provide the focused scrubbing action required for the small area of a hose fitting. Soap, while useful for cleaning in general, may not effectively remove thick, sticky substances like tar. A hose cleaner might be a viable option, but it could lack the aggressive scrubbing capability of a wire brush, which is particularly important for challenging materials.