What is considered a small diameter hose in firefighting?

In firefighting, small diameter hoses are typically defined as hoses that have a diameter ranging from 1 inch to 2 inches. These hoses are used for various applications, such as supplying water to handlines or for specific operations like mopping up or for attack lines that can be managed by one or two firefighters. Their smaller diameter allows for easier handling and maneuverability, making them suitable for situations where precision and control are vital.

Hoses outside this specific range, such as those less than 1 inch or exceeding 2 inches, either don't fulfill the operational requirements typically associated with small diameter hoses or are used for different purposes entirely. For instance, hoses measuring 3 inches and larger are generally classified as large diameter hoses, which are used for supplying significant water volumes to larger apparatus or during large-scale incidents.