What is the term for the special wrench used to tighten or loosen couplings on a fire hose?

The term for the special wrench used to tighten or loosen couplings on a fire hose is the spanner wrench. This tool is designed specifically for the purpose of handling the threaded couplings found on fire hoses, allowing firefighters to quickly and effectively connect or disconnect hoses under potentially the high-pressure conditions of firefighting.

Its design typically features a jaw that can grip the couplings securely, providing the necessary leverage to turn them without damaging the hose fittings. This is crucial for ensuring a tight seal when connecting hoses to one another or to equipment, thus preventing leaks that could compromise firefighting efforts.

In contrast, other types of wrenches, such as the socket wrench or torque wrench, are typically used for applications involving bolts and nuts, whereas an adjustable wrench, while versatile, does not have the specific design features needed for the couplings on fire hoses. This makes the spanner wrench an essential tool in firefighting operations.