SOP: Deploying the R&B Universal High-Rise & Wildland Hose Pack

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SOP: Deploying the R&B Universal High-Rise & Wildland Hose Pack

Category: Duffel Bags

Difficulty Level: Tier 3: Field Competency Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The R&B Universal High-Rise and Wildland Hose Pack is a hands-free bulk hose transport system used by firefighters to carry uncharged attack lines and associated appliances over vertical or horizontal terrain during the initial stages of fire attack setup.

The pack is built around a 3,200 cubic inch main compartment constructed from 1000 Denier Cordura fabric, capable of housing up to 150 feet of 2-inch hose loaded in flat or Cleveland configuration. A main protective flap with heavy-duty closures secures the load during transport, preventing hose spillage and protecting couplings from snagging. An exterior zippered pocket keeps mission-essential appliances, including the primary nozzle, spanner wrenches, standpipe adapters, and door chocks, organized and immediately accessible at the deployment point. Passive 3M Scotchlite reflective material enhances operator visibility in low-light and smoke-filled environments without requiring any user action.

Padded shoulder straps are adjusted for a high and tight fit over SCBA, distributing a dry load that can reach 60 to 90 pounds evenly across the shoulders while minimizing pack movement during stair ascent. This carry configuration frees both hands for forcible entry tools and continuous handrail contact, directly supporting firefighter safety during building ascent. The pack functions strictly as a transport system, not a live deployment system. Its operational scope is carrying a static, pre-configured hose bundle to a designated drop point such as a standpipe outlet or wye connection.

Post-deployment, the empty pack must be moved immediately to a position flat against a wall and clear of all egress paths. In low-visibility or high-traffic stairwell environments, an unsecured empty pack is an immediate trip hazard for all personnel operating on the staging floor.

Field Application Steps

1. PRE-DEPLOYMENT LOAD VERIFICATION: Confirm the pack is loaded with the correct hose configuration for the assigned operation, such as 150 feet of 1.75-inch or 2-inch line with nozzle and standpipe kit. Verify all appliances including the pressure gauge, spanner wrenches, and adapters are secured in the exterior zippered pocket.

2. PACK INTEGRITY INSPECTION: Inspect all shoulder straps, buckles, and zippers for damage or deformation before leaving the apparatus. Securely fasten the main protective flap using all heavy-duty closures to prevent hose spillage and coupling snags during movement.

3. DON PPE AND SCBA FIRST: Don all required personal protective equipment including SCBA before putting on the hose pack. The hose pack is worn over the SCBA, not under it.

4. DON AND ADJUST THE HOSE PACK: Place the hose pack over your SCBA and adjust the padded shoulder straps to achieve a high and tight fit against your back. A snug fit distributes the load evenly across the shoulders and minimizes pack movement during stair ascent.

5. ASCENT WITH HANDS FREE: Proceed to the designated stairwell with both hands available for forcible entry tools and handrail contact. Maintain situational awareness to prevent the pack from snagging on door frames, railings, or other obstructions throughout the ascent.

6. DOFF AND STAGE THE PACK: Upon reaching the staging floor, one floor below the fire floor, doff the pack and place it in a clear, protected area away from the primary work zone. Do not drop the pack in the center of the stairwell landing or egress corridor.

7. OPEN AND DEPLOY THE HOSE BUNDLE: Immediately release all closures on the main protective flap. Remove the hose bundle entirely from the main compartment and lay it out in preparation for standpipe connection.

8. RETRIEVE APPLIANCES: Open the exterior zippered pocket and retrieve the nozzle and all necessary appliances to complete the hose connection to the standpipe outlet.

9. STOW THE EMPTY PACK: Once the hose is fully removed, move the empty pack immediately and place it flat against a wall, well clear of the exit path and all areas of operations. This step is critical to maintaining unobstructed egress for all personnel operating in low-visibility conditions.

Equip Yourself: R&B Universal Forestry Hose Backpack – High-Rise & Wildland Cordura

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.