Crossword Genius

A defect in the hose used by firemen (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ladder

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue could be a double definition.

'a defect' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to natural events as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'hose used by firemen' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'in the' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ladder that I've seen before include "Domestic device for climbing" , "A fire-fighter may use one" , "Climbing frame; damage tights" , "squash club ranking?" , "sometimes with companion" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
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