Woven jacket fire hose cleaning: which statement is true?

• A. Can simply be rinsed with water after use
• B. Requires specialized detergents to clean it
• C. Must be brushed clear of dust and dirt after use
• D. Should only be cleaned using a hose washing machine

Answer: (C)

Brushing off dust and dirt after use is essential because loose debris clings to the fabric and can abrade fibers, harbor contaminants, and hide damage that could affect performance. This surface-cleaning step clears the material so subsequent washing is more effective, helps prevent odors and mildew, and makes it easier to inspect the hose for wear. Rinsing with water alone won’t reliably remove embedded dust and grime. Detergents may be used as part of the cleaning process, but they aren’t inherently required to be specialized in every case, and hose washing machines aren’t the only method—brushing is a necessary first step before or alongside washing.