Which type of supply hose load is considered the easiest to load?

The flat load is considered the easiest type of supply hose load to manage because it allows for quick deployment and is straightforward to roll back up. When using a flat load, the hose is laid out in a single layer without any twists or kinks, which minimizes the potential for tangling when it is unfurled. This simplicity in the loading process makes it easy for firefighters to load and unload the hose effectively, facilitating rapid response in emergency situations.

In contrast, the triple lay, cross lay, and fan load methods involve more complexity in their configurations and require additional techniques to properly load and unload the hoses. For instance, the cross lay is designed for quick deployment from the side of a fire apparatus, but it incorporates more folds and requires specific positioning. Similarly, the triple lay involves a more intricate arrangement to ensure that the hose can be deployed efficiently, and the fan load is designed for stretching the hose over longer distances, which can also add difficulty in loading. The flat load’s inherent simplicity is what sets it apart as the easiest option for hose management.