Deschutes River Manufacturing (DRM), an Oregon-based company, has rolled out a new offering to its fire hose management line – the Sidewinder ReLoader by Firequip. The new walk-behind base moves effortlessly forward toward a stretched out hose, automatically coiling and draining it as it goes, eliminating dragging the hose and unnecessary hose and coupling wear.
The Sidewinder ReLoader was the result of an idea from a customer — Firequip, Inc., a North Carolina-based fire hose manufacturer. The two companies have worked together over the past few years on several hose roller modifications designed specifically for Firequip’s hose manufacturing line. The Sidewinder ReLoader, however, is suitable for widespread use and is now available for purchase. It can be bought separately to augment an existing Rookie Sidekick hose management system or as part of a new system.
The Sidewinder ReLoader by Firequip Gas and Electric Hose Roller Systems are an advanced version of the Rookie Sidekick All-in-One Systems, with the addition of the new walk-behind base. Each system includes a Rookie Sidekick All-in-One Roller (Gas or Electric), the Sidewinder ReLoader Base, and the Rookie ReLoader Box and Stand for easy loading of hose back in the hose bed. Also included are a Skid Plate for coupling protection, and a Universal Hitch Receiver Mount and Foot Pedal Control for hands free operation.
The Sidewinder ReLoader weighs approximately 94 lbs on its own and approximately 240 lbs with the Rookie Sidekick roller attached. It is built to last with heavy-duty welded steel construction and powder-coated finish. Flat free tires and a one-year warranty round out the basic specs.
“Coming from the fire hose manufacturing side, we found the Rookie Sidekick Hose Management Systems to be a complement to our hose”, said Sam Campbell, VP of Firequip, Inc. “I personally feel this innovative hose roller system is a true necessity for all Fire Departments, both career and volunteer. The Rookie Sidekick Systems are the most versatile and easy to use hose rollers on the market.”
The first Rookie Automated Fire Hose Roller was produced in 2002 as a tool to alleviate the physical stress of man handling the miles of fire hose firefighters have to move as part of their daily job. “Why should a simple-yet-essential non-emergency task such as rolling fire hose be either difficult or dangerous,” said David Johnston, Deschutes River Manufacturing’s founder. “Firefighters should be able to roll, transport, re-deploy and re-deck fire hoses quickly, easily and safely, saving their energy and physical condition for the demanding task of suppressing fires.”
With a proven track record of customer satisfaction that includes every major U.S. public land management agency, some of the world’s largest energy companies, water utilities and fire departments on three continents, Deschutes River Manufacturing stands solidly behind their products. They are committed to continually researching, developing and field testing the highest quality, best designed fire hose handling equipment technology available today. And their offer of customized manufacturing to fit customers’ special needs is evidenced in this latest product.
