Why Every Fire Department Needs a Hose Washer: Cutting Carcinogen Exposure at the Scene
- Genesis Rescue Systems
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
A Hidden Threat on Every Call
Firefighters know that every scene carries danger—flames, smoke, collapse, and trauma. But one of the deadliest risks is often invisible: carcinogens that cling to turnout gear, helmets, and especially hoses.
Fire hoses drag through burning debris, chemicals, and contaminated runoff. If left unwashed, they bring those toxins back to the station, the truck, and ultimately to the crew. With firefighter cancer rates alarmingly high, reducing exposure is no longer optional—it’s essential.
That’s where a dedicated fire hose washer becomes a game-changer.
The Cancer Connection - Why you need a fire hose washer
Studies have shown that firefighters are more likely to develop cancers of the digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems than the general population. While turnout gear decontamination has gained attention in recent years, hoses often go overlooked.
Hoses collect carcinogens, chemical residues, and other contaminants.
Each roll, unroll, and stow in the truck releases those contaminants.
This creates a continuous cycle of exposure, even when the fire is out.
By using a fire hose washer and washing hoses at the scene—before they ever return to the truck—you break that cycle.
Why On-Scene Decon Beats Waiting Until Later
Some departments wait until returning to the station to rinse or wash hoses. Here’s why that’s not enough:
Cross-contamination: Contaminated hoses touch clean equipment, turnout gear, and truck compartments.
Delayed cleaning = higher risk: The longer toxins remain on the surface, the higher chance they have of contaminating those working with it.
Operational efficiency: Washing on scene saves valuable time at the station and ensures equipment is ready for the next call.
An on-scene hose washer ensures contaminants stay behind at the fireground, not in your firehouse.
Key Benefits of Hose Washers
Health & Safety First
Reduces firefighter exposure to cancer-causing contaminants.
Limits toxins entering the station environment.
Operational Efficiency
Cleans hoses in minutes at the fireground.
Less time spent washing back at the station.
Equipment Longevity
Hose lines may last longer with more frequent cleaning
Real-World Scenario
Imagine a structure fire where multiple hand lines run through debris and ash. Crews finish suppression, roll up (or otherwise store) contaminated hoses, and load them back into the truck. Without on-scene washing, those hoses spread toxins to gear, cabs, and ultimately the firehouse floor. With a portable hose washer, the same lines can be flushed and decontaminated before leaving the scene. By the time they’re back on the truck, they’re clean, safe, and ready—protecting both firefighters and facilities.
A Step Toward Firefighter Cancer Prevention
Cancer is now the leading cause of firefighter line-of-duty deaths. Every tool that reduces exposure matters. Hose washers may seem simple, but they address one of the most overlooked contamination sources in the fire service. Your department invests in turnout gear extractors, SCBA cleaning, and PPE decon. Hose washers are the missing piece in a comprehensive decontamination strategy.
Don’t Overlook the Hose
Firefighters are exposed to enough risks on every call. Carcinogens shouldn’t follow them back to the firehouse. Investing in a fire hose washer is more than a convenience—it’s a commitment to your crew’s long-term health, your department’s operational efficiency, and your community’s trust.
Protect your crew from hidden risks. The fireground is dirty, but your hoses don’t have to be. The Genesis Hose Decon System makes on-scene decontamination simple, fast, and effective—helping reduce carcinogen exposure and keeping your equipment ready for the next call.
Find a Dealer Today and see how Genesis Rescue Systems is putting firefighter safety first.
