How many firefighters, referred to as "firedawgs", are needed to stretch out 3 lengths of 2 1/2 inch hose?

To stretch out three lengths of 2 1/2 inch hose, a standard practice is to have a specific number of firefighters assigned to ensure efficient handling and control of the hose. In this case, the use of six firefighters is optimal.

Each firefighter typically has designated responsibilities when handling the hose. This includes maintaining control of the hose, ensuring it is laid out correctly, and preparing for water flow. It allows for one or more individuals to handle the leading end of the hose while others assist with managing additional sections, ensuring a smooth operation without kinks or unnecessary strain on any individual. This distribution of tasks enhances safety and efficiency during the hose deployment, especially given the larger diameter and weight of a 2 1/2 inch hose, which requires more manpower than smaller hoses.

The selection of six firefighters considers not only the physical demands of handling the hose but also factors in the need for teamwork and coordination during the firefighting operation. This ensures that the team is adequately prepared to respond to any situation that might arise while deploying the hose line.