Flip method

The flip method is a versatile way of getting hose from the rig to the door on the fireground and can be used most of the time when you’re pulling crosslays.

So first ensure you’re pulling the appropriate length of 1 ¾” hose. You’ll need enough to get to the point of entry and at least 50’ of working line.
In order to do the flip method correctly, pull the stack of hose partially out from the bed. Make sure to control the nozzle as it comes out. Then either pinch the stack together or hug it against your body. Finally, twist it to flip upside down and load the stack onto your shoulder. When done correctly, the hose will be stacked on your shoulder with the nozzle on your chest.
Take a couple steps forward before returning to the rig to pull the remainder of the hose out of the bed. It’s important here to turn to your right as you return to the rig so the hose doesn’t get tangled up on your SCBA. Once you’ve cleared the hose bed announce, “Hose bed clear”.
Announce “Clear hose. Clear traffic” and head towards objective.
As you reach the stairs, announce the floors on each level “1, 2, 3, etc.”.
Climb the stairs as hose pays out from the top of the load. See the Stairway vs Stairwell video on the SDFD Academy Engine side YouTube channel for how to deploy the hose. If going up a stairway, don’t wrap the hose tight to the corners. This can cause kinks in the line and shall be avoided.


Upon reaching the top floor utilize Accordion Forward or V-Split to flake out excess hose before placing the nozzle down.

Tie off hose to a stationary object with a cow hitch around the hose and clove hitch around the stationary object with an overhand safety knot. Tie the cow hitch on the pump side of the 50’ coupling. Then tie a clove hitch around the stationary object and finish it off by tying an overhand safety.




Flake out the hose and place 50’ coupling near nozzle.
Complete nozzle checks and calls out “butt shut”.
Signal and call for water to the Engineer announcing, “Water to Mattydale #__”.