Hose Handling Technique: The Lock Off

Stamford firefighter Nick DeAngelo provides an overview on how to utilize the lock-off method when two firefighters are advancing an 1 3/4" hose line for fire attack.

General principals:

- Provides for the use of larger muscles and body mechanics to control and absorb nozzle reaction and allow for a more effective and efficient advancement of the attack line.

Line used: 1 3/4" hose with 15/16" solid bore nozzle, 50 Psi at the tip.

[shortlawrence]

great video! we found that @2:20, you want to have your Heeler about 5-10' off the Nozzle. We did an experiment where we advanced hose: 1 with the heeler directly on the nozzle; 1 with the heeler about 5-10' back; and 1 about 15-20' back. Interestingly the 5-10 was smooth like butter. Give it a shot and see what you guys like, but I think the 5-10' allowed the hose to slink-ee a little due to the varying speeds of the heeler and nozzle. being right on the nozzle was difficult for me because we had to have the EXACT timing and distance of every step and we would bounce off one another. It was tougher for the nozzle to hold an accurate pattern and tougher for the heel to mimic identical "steps"

just my observations, hoping to spread the observations and experiences.

regarding the comment section: lock-off/comella vs knee walk vs clamp slide, I think its important to remember that every tool has a purpose. nothing is never nor always, everything has a strength and a weakness. then when you wanna get funky, switch to your non-dominant hand. much love, stay dangerous friends

[maj_ahole]

thanks im an attacker line hard when we don't have a stable chain of command

[drewjenkins]

Knee walk is better. Too much body forward during the lock off.no sounding good way to fall in a hole in the floor

[jrocha]

How would u do this if ur doing a search while carrying the hose line ? What side would u put the knee up on ?