What does a hose jacket do?

A hose jacket serves primarily to provide a protective layer around a damaged section of a hose, preventing further leaks and maintaining its functionality. When a hose incurs a tear or abrasion, a hose jacket can be applied to the affected area, which helps to contain the water pressure and prevents the hose from failing completely. This is crucial in firefighting scenarios where maintaining water flow is vital for safety and effectiveness.

While the other options touch on different aspects of hose management and functionality, they do not accurately describe the primary purpose of a hose jacket. For instance, a hose jacket does not enhance water flow through the hose, nor does it connect different hose sizes, and it does not inherently increase the handling capacity of the hose. Instead, it focuses on preserving the integrity of the hose and ensuring it can continue to be used without leakage.