Annual Fire Hose Testing is in Progress

Did you know that Cambridge Fire Department conducts annual hose testing? This practice ensures the reliability of the fire hose when used at the high pressures and volumes required for firefighting. It is also a contributing factor to our National Class 1 Fire Protection Rating. A Class 1 rating by the Insurances Services Office, a nationwide nonprofit service organization that provides rating and other services to property and casualty insurance industries, recognizes the highest level of fire protection.

Fire hose testing has been ongoing since August 6, 2023. Hose testing is labor intense and takes place on weeknights from 6-9 p.m. and on weekend days from 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m. The schedule is staggered so that only 2 engines test at a time.

Every engine company tests all of its hose, including attack and supply lines; 1 3/4", 2 1/2", and 3" lines are tested to 250 psi while 4" hose is tested to 200 psi. Hose on the spare pumps will also be tested. Ladder companies and squads will assist as needed, especially in helping to make up the "miles" of hose at the end of each test.