Backstretch

nounStandard termFire & Safety

The process of laying a supply hose from the fire scene back to the water source.

A hose-laying evolution where the fire apparatus drops its attack lines and equipment at the fire building, then drives away to a hydrant or static water source while paying out the large-diameter supply hose. This allows the crew to begin operations immediately while the driver establishes the water supply.

Heard on the job

Drop the attack bundle at the driveway and do a backstretch to the hydrant on the corner.

Also heard as

  • reverse lay