1 I think you need to contact fire department hose manufacturers! I bet they can come up with something for you!

2 That's a good idea! I'm going to try that. Of course, since government, with unlimited resources, is their primary purchaser, I'm betting they're going to want a lot of cash...but it might be worth it if I can get a hose that will last me more than one use.

3 Have you tried those flat hoses that are part of a reel. They aren't long (20 or 25 ft.), but they expand like a normal hose and can be reeled up. I have not tried them but they look interesting.

4 I've tried them, thanks. They twist up like a... well, they twist VERY easily and pinch off the water flow. I simply cannot stand that.

5 I think it was last year I saw an ad for a 'fireman hose' for use at home. For the life of me I can't remember what they called it or who manufactured it. I do remember them showing how it 'flattened' like a real fireman hose and how strong it was. Good luck.

6 Flattened or not doesn't matter to me. I just bought this damn expensive "contractor" hose at Lowes. I dragged it across the pavement and it kinked up, stopping the flow, and completely tore in half from nothing more than the weight of the hose on the concrete. I know as a kid they had a WHOLE lot stronger hoses than these crappy things...