As the name implies, a fire hose is a flexible hose used to transport water for firefighting. Typically made from rubber, polyurethane, or other synthetic materials, it is characterized by resistance to pressure, abrasion, and corrosion. Fire hoses are categorized based on their material into lined and unlined types.

Lined fire hoses withstand high pressure and resist abrasion, mold, and decay; they are durable, leak-resistant, offer low flow resistance, and are easy to use, making them suitable for deployment at outdoor fire scenes and for connection to fire trucks. In contrast, unlined fire hoses have lower pressure tolerance and higher flow resistance; they are prone to leakage and mold, and have a shorter lifespan, yet their lightweight and flexible nature makes them suitable for deployment inside buildings during fires.