What is the primary purpose of a jumper hose?

The primary purpose of a jumper hose in the context of damage control is to re-establish firemain continuity around a rupture. When a section of the firemain system is compromised due to a leak or rupture, a jumper hose can be employed to bypass the damaged section. This allows for the continued supply of water to firefighting systems or equipment, thereby ensuring that adequate resources are available for firefighting efforts. The use of a jumper hose is critical in maintaining operational readiness and safety during emergency situations, particularly in instances where firefighting capabilities must be preserved despite system failures.

Recognizing the other options helps to clarify the specific role of the jumper hose. Supplying oxygen or connecting electrical systems are functions related to different types of equipment and systems, rather than the firemain system. Measuring pressure is typically done with specialized instruments rather than a jumper hose. Therefore, the function of bypassing ruptures in the firemain aligns directly with the designed purpose of a jumper hose.