Fire hose reels are positioned around a property usually next to exits of buildings and should be sited to enable coverage of the entire floor area of the building. Fire hose reels are designed for manual fire fighting of non-fire personnel. A control nozzle attached to the end of the hose reel enables the operator to control the direction and flow of water to the fire. Fire hose reels are typically connected to the mains water providing for a continuous supply of water.

It is imperative that regular testing of fire hose reels is carried out to ensure their readiness for fire fighting. Non-fire fighting use of fire hose reels is strictly prohibited.