Hose washing equipment is a key investment for every fire department – here’s how to apply for funding

A modern fire department must ensure both high operational performance and the highest possible level of occupational safety for its personnel in demanding work. Hosemaster™ automates washing, pressure testing, and coiling of fire hose in a single integrated process, completing each step much faster and more cleanly than traditional methods. There are also several funding options available for investments that significantly improve firefighters’ working conditions and safety, which we describe in more detail below.

Firefighting is physically demanding work and is well known for its high risk of occupational injuries and illnesses. A significant amount of working time is also spent on post incident clean up, when hose must be washed to remove soot and other fireground contaminants, including carcinogens that are extremely hazardous to health. To comply with regulations and enhance occupational safety, every department must actively look for new solutions – and for funding to support these critical investments.

Reliable, tested, and clean equipment is a firefighter’s most vital resource

Clean, well maintained equipment is essential for firefighters, ensuring both smooth operations and safer day to day work. Traditionally, cleaning fire hose has been a time consuming and physically demanding task. Hosemaster™ brings hose washing, pressure testing, and coiling together in a single enclosed fire hose washer, automating a key part of post incident operations. A department does not need to compromise on cleanliness or efficiency because of budget constraints, as there are several different financing options available for this type of purchase. A clean station can often be achieved with grant funding specifically intended for fire equipment and firefighter safety projects.

FEMA awards grants for station equipment and firefighter safety

Hosemaster™ can be one of the most important single investments a department can make for a clean station, operational readiness, and firefighter safety. It helps protect firefighters from toxic carcinogens and other harmful residues that adhere to hose surfaces at fire scenes and contribute to increased risks of firefighter cancer and firefighter lung disease.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides strong funding opportunities for these purchases through the Assistanceto Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Departments can apply for an AFG grant directly through FEMA’s online AFG portal, or they can work with a grant consultant who specializes in AFG applications. Equipment grants for fire departments and firefighter safety initiatives help ensure that your department can secure the resources needed to acquire essential equipment today.

A financing partner can support your department’s essential investments

Your department can also finance Hosemaster™ through our trusted partner, Republic First National. They offer tailored financing solutions for fire stations and firefighter equipment purchases, including dedicated hose washer financing for Hosemaster™ systems. Flexible lease agreements are available that allow the department to take ownership of the equipment at the end of the term. Republic First National can provide up to 100% financing at a competitive interest rate, without requiring a large upfront payment. This makes it straightforward to acquire a modern fire hose maintenance system that improves both efficiency and firefighter health.

Download the Republic First National Bank financing brochure here!