Automatic Fire Hose Reel with Instructions for Use - Safety Signs by Caledonia Signs

An Automatic Fire Hose Reel Safety Sign is a vital component of fire protection systems, designed to clearly indicate the location of an automatic hose reel and provide easy-to-follow instructions for use during an emergency. Unlike manual hose reels, automatic reels begin delivering water immediately when the hose is pulled out, removing the need to operate a separate valve. The safety sign communicates this feature by instructing users to: 1. pull hose, 2. open nozzle, and 3. aim at the base of the fire. This helps occupants understand how to deploy the hose quickly and correctly. With high-visibility design—typically a red background with white symbols and text—the sign ensures that the hose reel can be identified instantly, even under stressful or low-visibility conditions.

These signs are particularly important because they simplify the operation of the hose reel, allowing trained or untrained users to act swiftly during a fire. The automatic flow reduces the risk of mistakes, speeds up response times, and maximises the effectiveness of initial firefighting efforts before professional responders arrive. By providing clear guidance directly at the hose reel, the sign supports safe and confident use, which is critical in high-pressure situations where panic or uncertainty can occur.

Placement of these signs is strategically important. They are typically installed near exits, stairwells, corridors, and high-risk areas where fires are more likely to occur or where rapid access is essential. This ensures that occupants and emergency personnel can quickly locate the equipment, improving response efficiency and helping contain fires at an early stage. The combination of visibility, location guidance, and operational instructions makes the sign an integral part of the building’s fire safety infrastructure.

Beyond immediate emergency use, Automatic Fire Hose Reel Safety Signs also support compliance with fire safety regulations and standards. Many commercial, industrial, and public buildings are legally required to provide clear signage for all fire-fighting equipment, and these signs demonstrate that safety measures are being actively managed. By providing both identification and usage instructions, the signs enhance occupant preparedness, reinforce fire safety protocols, and contribute to a safer, more organised response in any fire scenario.

Materials Explained

Below is a more detailed description of the materials this particular safety sign is available in. Helping you decide which sign option is most suitable for your application.

Rigid Plastic: This lightweight, gloss white PVC is resistant to weather, moisture, chemicals, and general wear and tear, making it suitable for harsh environments. Its smooth, solid surface allows for crisp printing of text and graphics, enhancing readability and visual impact. Businesses who choose Rigid Plastic signs benefit from fewer replacements and minimal maintenance, making it a practical investment for reliable and effective safety signs.

Self-Adhesive Vinyl: Self-adhesive vinyl is easy to apply and it is budget-friendly. Its adhesive backing allows for easy application to a variety of surfaces such as glass, metal, plastic, and painted walls, which simplifies installation and reduces setup time. Self-adhesive vinyl provides a clean, professional finish that suits many indoor environments including offices, retail, industrial sites, and vehicles. It is more affordable than many other material types and allows for custom shapes, colours, and graphics.

To achieve high performance in low light conditions and conform to ISO 16069 we recommend using Ultra Bright.

Ultra Bright Photoluminescent Rigid Plastic: Ultra Bright rigid plastic has a photoluminescent (glow in the dark) pigmentation which offers a highly effective, reliable, and energy-free visibility in low-light or blackout conditions, making them ideal for emergency exit applications. The afterglow properties exceed PSPA Class C grade, as measured to DIN 6751, provides razor sharp definition in blackout conditions.

Ultra Bright Photoluminescent Self Adhesive: Ultra Bright self adhesive vinyl is a flexible PVC with photoluminescent (glow in the dark) pigmentation. The self-adhesive backing enables quick, tool-free application on smooth, clean surfaces like walls and doors. The afterglow properties exceed PSPA Class C grade, as measured to DIN 6751, provides razor sharp definition in blackout conditions, making them ideal for emergency escape applications.