Crossword Genius

Problems with hose or other firefighting equipment (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ladders

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

'problems' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ladders that I've seen before include "Stocking snags" , "Climbing aids" , "Hose runners" , "they help people to get up" , "Sets of steps" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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