What type of coupling is expected to be found on the top of a hose bed set up for reverse lay?

In the context of a reverse lay setup for fire hoses, the type of coupling expected at the top of a hose bed is the male coupling. This design facilitates quick and efficient connection to the fire apparatus during deployments.

The male coupling is typically positioned where the hose is pulled from the bed for operational use. When laying out hoses, the male coupling allows the firefighter to easily connect the hose to either another length of hose or directly to firefighting equipment without needing to turn the hose around or adjust the direction of flow.

Positioning male couplings at the top of the hose bed also helps in maintaining an organized and integrated layout, preventing kinks and tangles as the hose is deployed. The other types of couplings, such as female or threaded couplings, are used in various fitting and connection scenarios, but when dealing with the reverse lay method, the male coupling is ideal for these practical, operational requirements.