What is the primary risk associated with over-pressurizing a hose?

Over-pressurizing a hose significantly increases the risk of hose rupture or failure, which is the primary concern when operating fire hoses. Fire hoses are designed to operate within a specific pressure range, and exceeding this limit can lead to structural failure. This rupture can happen due to the material's inability to withstand the force exerted on it by high-pressure water.

When a hose fails, it can result in a dangerous situation not only for the operator but also for nearby personnel, as a ruptured hose can whip violently and cause injury. Additionally, it can lead to a loss of water supply at the nozzle, compromising firefighting efforts and overall safety at the scene. Understanding the limitations of hoses and adhering to safe pressure guidelines is crucial for effective fire service operations.