The Cleveland Load is a specific technique for folding fire hoses, developed by the San Diego Fire Department. This method allows for efficient hose packing and rapid deployment, making it highly favored by firefighters, especially in scenarios involving high-rise buildings or wildfires. Its ease of transportation and deployment is particularly advantageous in these challenging environments.

One of the key benefits of the Cleveland Load is its ability to position the hose quickly in areas like staircases and hallways without dragging it along the ground. During deployment, the hose can simply be placed and spread out at the desired location, allowing for an immediate supply of water. This simplicity is what makes the Cleveland Load so appealing.

Steps to Create the Cleveland Load

1. Starting the Hose Fold
   Begin by creating a fold approximately 1.5 meters from the hose’s male end.
   Hold the female coupling at the start of the hose.
   Then, slide the looped end through the coupling to form a new fold.

2. Progressing the Fold
   Continue the folding process for the entire length of the hose section.
   Pull the loops toward yourself to maintain control as you fold.
   Ensure the folds are neatly aligned and packed tightly for a compact load.

3. Connecting Additional Sections
   Once the first section of the hose is fully folded, attach the next section using the couplings.
   Repeat the folding process with the new section until it is complete.

4. Attaching the Nozzle
   After all sections have been folded, connect the nozzle to the end of the hose.
   Position the nozzle at the center of the folded pack for balance and easy access.

5. Securing the Final Load
   Secure the nozzle in the center of the pack using a strap.
   This ensures that the load remains compact and organized during transport.

6. Carrying and Use
   The completed load can be carried over the shoulder for mobility.
   Alternatively, place it securely on top of an SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) tank for easy transportation and deployment.

Deployment Steps

1. Place the hose on the ground and release the strap.
2. Locate the coupling at the end of the pack.
3. Unfold the pack from the center.
4. Hold the nozzle and spread the hose as needed.
5. Charge the hose with water for deployment.

Important Precautions

• Hose Line Deployment:
  • Never deploy the hose while it’s uncharged.
  • Once the hose is charged, you’ll hear a distinct “pop” sound, signaling it’s ready for use.
• Operating Pressure:
  • Use an engine pressure of 100 PSI for a fully charged hose.
  • Account for friction loss in the hose when calculating the engine pressure.
• Training Recommendations:
  • Practical training with this method is highly recommended for proper understanding and execution.

By following these steps and precautions, the Cleveland Load becomes an efficient and reliable tool for fire hose management and deployment.

Reference Video

Reference page: “Key fire characteristics: combustion elements, smoke risks, toxic gases, and safe firefighting techniques.”

References　National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

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