When a fire starts in a workplace, the first few seconds are the most important. Most buildings in Perth are equipped with both fire extinguishers and fire hose reels. But in the heat of the moment, do you know which one to grab?
Using the wrong tool won’t just fail to put out the fire—it could actually make the situation much more dangerous. This guide is designed to help you and your staff understand the difference between these two vital pieces of equipment and how to choose the right one for first-response firefighting.
Understanding Fire Hose Reels: The Power of Water
A fire hose reel is a powerful tool designed to provide a continuous, high-volume water supply. Because it is connected directly to the building’s water mains, it will never run out of “extinguishing agent” as long as the water is turned on.
When to Use a Hose Reel
Fire hose reels are strictly designed for Class A fires. These are fires involving ordinary combustible materials, such as:
- Paper and cardboard.
- Wood and furniture.
- Textiles and curtains.
- Rubber and many plastics.
Water works by cooling the fuel down until it can no longer burn. Because a hose reel allows you to stand back (usually up to 4 to 6 metres away), it is an excellent tool for tackling larger fires involving solid materials.
When NOT to Use a Hose Reel (The Danger Zones)
You must never use a hose reel on:
- Electrical Fires (Class E): Water conducts electricity. If you spray a hose reel at a live electrical switchboard, the electricity can travel up the water stream and give you a fatal shock.
- Oil and Fat Fires (Class F): If you spray water into a hot deep fryer or an oil fire, the water will instantly turn to steam and “explode,” spreading burning oil everywhere.
Understanding Fire Extinguishers: The Specialized Choice
While a hose reel only uses water, fire extinguishers come in many different types (Powder, CO2, Foam, Wet Chemical). They are designed for smaller, specific types of fires.
- CO2 Extinguishers: Best for electrical fires because the gas leaves no mess and doesn’t conduct electricity.
- Dry Powder Extinguishers: Great “all-rounders” that can handle electrical, liquid, and wood fires, but they only last for a few seconds.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Fire Hose Reels | Fire Extinguishers |
| Source | Unlimited (Water Mains) | Limited (Cylinder Capacity) |
| Best For | Large Class A fires (Wood/Paper) | Small, specific fires (Electrical/Oil) |
| Weight | Heavy to pull, but stays on wall | Portable and easy to carry |
| Risk | High risk with electricity/oil | Specific types are safe for electricity |
Why Fire Training is Essential for Your Staff
Just having the equipment isn’t enough; your team needs to know how to use it safely. Fire training is a critical part of workplace safety in Western Australia. During a training session, staff learn how to:
- Identify the fire type quickly.
- Operate the nozzle and valve on fire hose reels correctly.
- Use the “PASS” technique for extinguishers (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
- Decide when a fire is too big to fight and when it is time to evacuate.
[Image illustrating the PASS method for using a fire extinguisher]
Maintaining Your Equipment with Safetytech Fire Services
In Perth, the dry climate can cause rubber hoses to perish and valves to seize up. Under Australian Standard AS 1851, both your extinguishers and your fire hose reels must be inspected every six months to ensure they are ready for action.
At Safetytech Fire Services, we provide comprehensive maintenance and safety solutions for businesses across Perth. We ensure your equipment is:
- Always Pressurized: Checking for leaks in the hose and valves.
- Easy to Access: Making sure reels unwind smoothly without snagging.
- Correctly Tagged: Providing the legal proof of compliance you need for insurance.
Our digital portal makes it easy for you to see the service history of every reel and extinguisher on your property. We don’t just “check the box”—we make sure your team has the right tools to stay safe.
Is your team ready to handle a fire? Contact Safetytech Fire Services today to schedule your equipment maintenance or to discuss fire safety solutions for your Perth business.
FAQs
Can I use a fire hose reel on a fat fire in a kitchen?
No! Never use water on a fat or oil fire. You must use a Fire Blanket or a Wet Chemical extinguisher specifically designed for Class F fires.
How long is a standard fire hose reel?
In Australia, most commercial fire hose reels are 36 metres long, allowing them to reach deep into buildings.
Do fire hose reels need a special sign?
Yes. Under Australian Standards, they must have a specific “Fire Hose Reel” sign mounted above them so they can be found easily in a smoky room.
Why can’t I use a hose reel on an electrical fire?
Water is a conductor of electricity. Using a hose on live wires can lead to electrocution.
How often should fire hose reels be tested?
They must be inspected every 6 months, with a more detailed “flow test” and “unwind test” performed annually.
What is a Class A fire?
A Class A fire involves common combustible solids like wood, paper, cloth, and many plastics.
Can anyone use a fire hose reel?
While anyone can technically use one, it is highly recommended that staff receive fire training to ensure they use it safely and effectively.
Do fire hose reels run out of water?
No. Because they are connected to the building’s main water supply, they provide a continuous flow of high-volume water.
What should I do if the hose is leaking?
A leaking hose can cause water damage and may fail during a fire. You should call Safetytech Fire Services to repair or replace the hose immediately.
Is it better to have an extinguisher or a hose reel?
Most Perth commercial buildings are required by law to have both. They serve different purposes: extinguishers for small/specific fires and hose reels for larger wood/paper fires.