Basic Ladders (BSM) Flashcards
Stairways are ordinarily accessible, but sometimes they may be involved in fire or other hazards. Members must therefore need to ___
Provide their own means of ascent or descent to upper floors
Ladder uses
- Rescue
- Access
- Ventilation
- Fire streams
- Bracing
- Salvage
The principle use of fire service ladders
Rescue work
Windows may be vented from the ___ using ground ladders
Exterior
Fire service ladders are used to gain access to ___
Attics, upper floors, or to the roof of a structure as well as spaces that may be difficult to access otherwise
Fire streams can be operated directly off of ___ ladders
Properly supported
A small extension ladder that is carried on all ladder trucks and engine companies. Vary in length from 10 to 14 feet
Baby ladder
The main section of an extension ladder from which the fly is extended
Bed
The principle structural member of the ladder where the rungs are secured
Beam
Beams may be ___
Solid or trussed
The bottom end of the ladder opposite the tip
Butt
Used in multiple-fly extension ladders to extend fly sections in addition to the halyard
Cable
Used to anchor the end of the cable to the fly section
Cable anchor
The folding attic ladder has hinged rungs whereby the two beams can be folded together
Folding ladder
The mechanism that keeps the flys from retracting once they are properly set on the desired rung
Dogs
Dogs are also referred to as ___
Pawls or locks
Ladders with two or more section, and with the exception of the baby ladder, are extended with a halyard
Extension ladder
In Seattle, extension ladders vary in length from ___
10 to 45 feet
The extendable and retractable section or sections of an extension ladder
Fly
The metal strips on an extension ladder which guide the fly section or sections while being extended or retracted
Guides
The rope used to extend or retract the fly
Halyard
The device used to anchor the halyard line to the fly section
Halyard anchor
The curved metal hooks at the tip end of a roof ladder
Hooks
A metal hook and rope device used to secure the tip of a ladder to its objective to prevent tipping
Ladder anchor
The grooved metal wheel over which the halyard or cable is drawn when extending or retracting the flys
Pulley
A straight ladder with folding hooks at the tip end used for maintaining secure footing when operating on a pitched roof
Roof ladder
Horizontal cross members of the ladder, used when climbing
Rungs
Rungs on fire service ladders are usually ___
Round and spaced 14” apart
The metal plate where the rungs are set in the beam
Rung plates
The metal point at the end of a tormentor pole
Spike
Protrusions at the butt of a ladder to prevent slipping when in the raised position, and to protect the end of the beams
Spurs
Prevents the extension of a fly section out of the top of the bed
Stops
Attaches the tormentor pole to the right and left beams on the bed section of a 40’ or longer ladder
Swivel
The uppermost end of the ladder
Tip
The poles attached to the upper bed section of a 40’ or larger extension ladder
Tormentor poles
Purpose of tormentor poles
Assist in raising, lowering, pivoting, and stabilizing of the ladder
The solid beam is a ___
Solid piece of material of the shape and size to provide the maximum strength for fire service work
___ ladders are designed to increase strength in relation to weight
Trussed
When using longer ladders, trussed beam ladders are often used rather than solid beam because ___
The weight of the trussed beam ladder will be less, although just as strong
Beamed ladders are used for ___
Certain roof ladders
It is good practice to write the measured length of the ladder on the ___
Inside of each beam near the butt
The length written on the ladder is the length when it is ___
Retracted
Purpose of writing the length of the ladder near the butt
Allows members to better judge the distance in which they must extend the fly to the desired target height
Baby ladders are primarily used in ___
Gaining access to lower elevations on the exterior of buildings, salvage work, and gaining access to scuttles inside buildings
Primary purpose of the roof ladder
Establish secure footing on a pitched roof
The hooks on a roof ladder provide a means of ___
Anchoring the ladder over the roof ridge or some other roof part
A roof ladder can allow easier access to the bottom of a fire escape by ___
Using the hooks over the rungs and the spurs on the ground
Roof ladder length
Vary from 10 to 20 feet
Most common size of roof ladder carried
12 to 14 feet
The folding ladder measures about ___
4” (width when folded)
10’ length
The folding ladder cannot be ___
Extended
The folding ladder is also called ___
An attic ladder
Advantage of the folding ladder
It is easier to maneuver around corners, in hallways, and stairwells
Ladders ___ or longer are equipped with poles to assist in handling and placement
40’
Ladder safety precautions
- Use extreme caution when reaching arms through the rungs of extended ladders
- Do not adjust the butt of an extended ladder until the tip is against the building and the fly is properly secured
- Keep hands, fingers, and feet clear of the fly sections and rungs when extending or retracting
- Use approved safety gear while manipulating ladders
- Avoid walking backwards while carrying ladders
- Attempt to maintain as many point of contact with the ladder to safely complete the task, unless locked in
- Never lock in on a non secured ladder
- Never lock in on an arial ladder
- Check overhead for wires or obstructions prior to raising and lowing ladders
- Always watch the tip of the ladder whenever it is in the vertical position, when lowering into the building, and when pivoting
- Do not walk backwards when maneuvering tormentor poles
- Do not step over ladders lying on the ground
Before reaching arms through the rungs of extended ladders, make sure that ___
All dogs are locked and the halyard is secured
Secure the extension ladder fly with ___
The halyard or body loop
Minimum safety gear when manipulating ladders
Gloves, helmets, and steel toed shoes
Washington law providing for ladder safety standards for the fire service
WAC 296-305-06005
Ladder locks or pawls on extension ladder shall be so fastened or secured to the beams that ____
Vibration and use will not cause loosening of bolts and nuts
Pawls or ladder locks shall be so constructed that the ___
Hook portion of the pawl that engages the rung shall have sufficient bearing surface or area to prevent the hook from cutting into the rungs when engaged
The ladder lock hooks shall be properly finished to eliminate ___
Sharp edges and points
___ shall be furnished on all extension ladders over 40’
Staypoles or tormentors
Staypole or tormentor spikes shall not project beyond the ___
Butt of the ladders when nested
All ladders shall be stored in a manner to provide ___
Ease of access for inspection, and to prevent danger of accident when withdrawing them for use
Members shall climb and descent ground ladders with the fly ___
Out
When can members climb a ladder with the fly in?
Adverse conditions when it is necessary to assure secure footing
All ladders regardless of type shall be inspected thoroughly ___
After each use
Records of ladder shall be kept of the ___
Inspections and repairs
Metal ladder components to be checked
- Rungs for welds, damage or weakness caused by overloading or bumping against other objects, looseness and cracks, etc
- Beams for welds, rivets and bolts, signs of strain or metal fatigue, and deformation from heat or overloading
- Bolts and rivets for tightness
- Butt spurs for excessive wear or other defects
- Halyards for fraying or breaking
- Heat sensor label, for change indicating heat exposure
Methods for fastening ladder halyards, shall be in a manner that the connection is ___
Stronger than the halyard
Any defect noted in the visual inspection shall be ___
Corrected prior to testing
Lifting should be done with the ___
Knees bent in a squatting position, with the back straight
Keep the load close into the ___
Body
Lifting by stooping over with the legs straight places the load on the ___
Sensitive back and abdominal muscles
Lifting properly places the load on the ___
Heavy muscles in the thighs
Keeping the ties pointed ___ lessens the chance of abdominal injury
Slightly inward rather than spread out
When two or more members lift together, their actions should be ___
In unison
Ensure ___ before lifting
Good footing and a firm and substantial hand grip
The use of ___ will ensure that all members are in unison
Preparatory commands
If in doubt or a member is not ready, ___ is vital to preventing unnecessary injuries
Early communication from members
Members must know what action to take when the ladder command is given to ensure ___
A smooth, coordinated movement in lifting, carrying, spotting, raising, pivoting, extending, retracting and lowering a ladder
Commands shall be given by the member in charge in a ___
Loud, clear, and concise voice
___ is required to commands
Prompt and exact response
When using tormentor poles, the member in charge will be on the ___
Right pole
When two or more members are carrying a ladder, the member in charge shall be positioned ___
- On the right beam, at the center, for a cradle carry
- On the right beam, at the center or butt, for a 3 member flat carry
- At the right butt on a 4 or 5 member flat carry
- At the butt for all beam carries
If a sufficient number of members are available to carry the ladder, the officer may opt to ___
Stand out and give commands
What to decide about the ladder when sizing-up a situation?
- The use for the ladder
- Type of ladder needed
- Length of ladder most suitable to the situation
Ladders have their greatest strength when in a ___ position
Vertical
Ladders have their least strength when in a ___ position
Horizontal
To ensure safety, ease of climbing, and to support the greatest weight, ladders should be ___
Placed at the proper angle
Proper angle for a ladder
About 70° from horizontal
Simple and effective way to determine if a ladder is set at the proper angle for climbing
Take a standard position with your toes against the ladder spurs, extend your arms out straight, and your fingers should fall on the rung at about shoulder level
Maximum number of people allowed on a ladder is determined by ___
The ladder manufacturer
Maximum load of ladder less than 30’
2
Maximum load of ladder 30’ or longer
3
The maximum number of people allowed on a ladder includes ___
Anyone being rescued or carried down the ladder
Loads exerted on ladders for drill purposes or normal fire ground operations should not exceed ___
750 lbs
NFPA requires that all fire service ground extension and roof ladders have a ___ safety factor designed into the working load limits
4:1
When a member is working on a ladder, the fly sections shall be ___
Properly secured using the halyard or a body loop
Refer to the ___ for the maximum load specifications for arial ladder apparatus
Manufacturer’s manual
Ladder commands must be spoken ___
Clearly and loud enough to be heard by all members of the ladder team
Commands will normally be given by the member ___
In charge of the operation
The officer, or member in charge, should be positioned ___ during the removal and carrying of ladders
On the right beam (or pole)
Members carrying ladders shall be alert to ___
Warn others of danger, or to inform the member in charge of unsafe conditions
The member ___ will give the commands to complete the raise and placement of the ladder into the objective
On the right beam (or pole)
The member in charge of the ladder may stand out, achieving a ___
Better vantage point to give commands
All extension ladders are raised with the fly sections ___
Toward the building
To ensure a proper angle for the ladder ___
The butt of the ladder should be a fixed distance out from the surface supporting the top of the ladder, about 1/4 of the height from the ground to the point the ladder rests against the objective
Command given to adjust the butt of the ladder (to the right, left, in, or out) to the proper climbing angle or squaring it to the building
Adjust the butt
Statement made by members after checking to ensure that the dogs are secured properly to the desired rung after extending the flys
All dogs are locked
The fly section of the ladder is extended to the desired height by pulling down on the halyard
Extend the fly
A command given by the member on the tormentor poles to the member on the fly side of the ladder to come and take the left tormentor pole once the ladder has come to the vertical and is stabilized
Fly side around
A command given to lower the butt end of the ladder prior to raising it to the vertical
Ground the butt
What carries is the command “Ground the Butt” given?
Cradle and beam carries
During a cradle carry, cradle raise, the command “Ground the Butt” would order the members to ___
Place the butt on the ground and raise the ladder all in one motion
The member shifting the ladder stops and lowers the butt to the ground
“Halt” (pause) “Lower”
The command issued when the fly is at the desired height. The fly is then locked at the next highest rung
High
The member on the bed side of the ladder, with the member on the fly side assisting them, lower the ladder into the building
Into the building
When lowering a ladder into a building, the members on the bide side of the ladder (during a 3 person evolution) must ensure that ___
Their inside foot is placed on the bottom rung to keep the butt of the ladder from moving
When lowering a ladder into a building, if one member is on the bed side, ___
Both hands should grasp the 4th rung and the left foot would be on the bottom rung in the center
When lowering a ladder into a building, if two members are on the bed side, ___
Their inside hands should grasp the 4th rung and their outside hands would grasp the respective beams
Warning statement called out to advise others that a ladder is being carried through their area
Ladder coming through
The left pole member gives their pole to the right pole member and moves to the fly side of the ladder
Left pole around
The member lifts the ladder and moves in the direction indicated
“Lift” (pause) “Shift”
The member on the right beam lowers the fly sections
Lower the fly
It is necessary for the member on the right beam to lower the fly, due to ___
The fact that the halyard, as it goes through the upper pulley, is angled to the right side
If a ladder were ever to have the halyard come from the left side of the pulley on a 3 person evolution the member ___ would lower the fly
on the left
Lower the ladder to the ground
Lower the ladder
The member gives this command when they start moving with the tormentor pole to get in position before and after the pivot of a 40’ or greater extension ladder
Moving
How many tormentor poles can be moving at a time?
Only one
The ladder is pivoted toward the flys on the designated beam
On the (right or left) beam, pivot in
Ladders are pivoted ___ unless directed otherwise
1/4 turn
The ladder is pivoted toward the bed on the designated beam
On the (right or left) beam, pivot out
All members working with the ladder, move one position clockwise
Once around
When and why is the command “once around” given
Only for training purposes to ensure that all members get an equal chance to practice in each position
The tip of the ladder is pulled away from the building to a vertical position
Out from the building
The command given by the person in charge to move the poles from the set position into position to pull the ladder out from the building
Out with the poles
The statement issued prior to raising, or prior to passing the poles on a tormentor ladder, to indicate that the area above the ladder is clear of wires or obstructions
Overhead clear
Announce before lowering the the ladder if it is lowered in a different direction that it was raised or lowered by different personnel
Overhead clear
Announce before shifting a ladder
Overhead clear
The command given by the member in charge to the members who will be footing the ladder on the raise, to unseat the tormentors and pick them straight up so the two members on the beams can continue the movement of the poles to the member in charge
Pass the poles
The preparatory command which precedes the next command “raise”
Prepare to raise
A preparatory command for spotting given when bringing in a ladder to raise it. When it is given the personnel carrying the ladder will take one more step before stopping forward motion
“Ready” (pause one step) “Halt”
Indicates that the members should now begin to raise the ladder toward the vertical position
Raise
The halyard is untied by the member on the right beam. This is accomplished all while the left foot is on the bottom rung near the center
Release the halyard
Remove the ladder anchor from the fly or tip
Release the tip
The member on the right beam places their left foot on the bottom rung, in the center. The member then pulls the slack rope through the second and third rung space, wraps the excess slack around the third rung, then ties a round turn and two half hitches around the halyard above the third rung
Secure the halyard
The bight or slack on the last half hitch should be move to the ___
Objective side of the ladder
The tip of the ladder (fly section) will be secured to the building with a ladder anchor
Secure the tip
The command given when the member moving with a tormentor pole has reached their ready position and is prepared for the next action
Set
When the ladder is in the proper position for climbing, the poles are moved from the butt to a position parallel to the objective and the spike is allowed to rest on the ground
Set the poles
Start moving the ladder in the indicated direction while it is in the raised position
Shift
Return the ladder to the apparatus or storage area, tip first
Stow the ladder
An optional statement given after “prepare to lift” that alerts members of the intent to lift the ladder to the shoulder
To the shoulder
The memorization of the exact location of each ladder on the apparatus and how it is secured ensures that ___
Any ladder can be located and placed into operation without delay
Generally, ladders are carried in the same manner in which they are ___
Nested on the apparatus
Ladders nested flat on the apparatus are carried ___
Flat
Ladders nested on the beams are ___ carried
Beam
Ladders are usually carried ___ end first when removing from the apparatus and ___ end first when returning them to the apparatus
- Butt end
- Tip end
Members shall avoid walking ___ while carrying ladders
Backward
Unused ladders that must be removed from the apparatus should be ___
Placed in a safe position
How do most accidents with ladders occur?
While handling, no climbing
Beam carry options
- Low shoulder beam carry
- High shoulder beam carry
One member - from the ground 28’ extension ladder or less low shoulder beam carry
- ID the center of the ladder
- Position yourself at the center of the ladder and face it
- Squat down and grasp hold of the closest beam with both hands
- Lift the beam from the ground and allow it to rest on its outside beam so the bed of the ladder is next to you
- Simultaneously, step in toward the ladder
- Place your body in a semi-squat position
- The tip of the ladder is picked up and the ladder is placed on the inside thigh while keeping the butt of the ladder resting on the ground
- Place the inside arm between the rungs, by or at the center, and grasp the upper beam of the ladder in front of the rung so the rung will rest against the arm to keep it from twisting
- Rise to a standing position with the ladder resting on the shoulder
- The outside hand takes hold of the most comfortable rung in front of the chest for stabilization and balance
- The butt end of the ladder should be tilted downward to allow for clear forward vision
One member - from the ground 28’ extension ladder or less high shoulder beam carry
- ID the center of the ladder
- Position yourself at the top 1/3 of the ladder and face it
- Squat down and grasp hold of the closest beam with both hands
- Lift the beam from the ground and step in toward the ladder allowing it to rest on its outside beam so the bed of the ladder is now next to you
- Lift the tip of the ladder leaving the spur on the ground as you come to a standing position
- Move toward the butt raising the tip until you can step under the lower beam with your shoulder at the center of the ladder
- Lift the butt end off the ground
- The inside hand takes hold of the bottom beam to secure the ladder to the shoulder
- The outside hand grasps the upper beam for the best stabilization and balance
One member - (ladder truck) 28’ or less extension ladder low shoulder beam carry
- Unlock ladders
- Pull the ladder straight back and when the ladder is free of the ladder rack, set the butt end on the ground
- Face the butt while standing at the center of the ladder
- With your inside hand, grasp the closest beam and rotate it so the bed section is toward you
- Carry in the same manner as a side mounted ladder
One member - (truck company) 28’ or less extension ladder high shoulder beam carry
Same as the conducting a low shoulder beam carry, but use the high shoulder carry
One member - (engine) 26’ or less ground extension ladder low shoulder beam carry
- Remove the locking device which secure the ladder
- ID the center of the ladder
- Remove the ladder from the apparatus and place the butt of the ladder on the ground while supporting the tip of the ladder
- Place the inside arm through the rungs near the center, and grasp the upper beam of the ladder in front of the rung so the rung will rest against the arm to keep it from twisting
One member - (engine) 26’ or less ground extension ladder high shoulder carry
- Unlock the ladder
- Step to the center of the ladder so that the lower beam is resting on the shoulder
- The inside hand takes hold of the lower beam to secure the ladder to the shoulder
- The outside hand grasps the upper beam for the best stabilization and balance
Two members - from the ground 35’ or less ground extension ladder beam carry
- The member in charge will be at the butt
- Approach the ladder and position themselves between the 2nd and 3rd rungs from the tip and the butt
- Lift from the inside beam from the ground and step in toward the ladder rolling the ladder away from themselves so that the bed section is toward them
- Face the butt
- Kneel down with their inside knee up
- Lift the ladder up onto their inside leg
- Place the inside arm between the 2nd and 3rd rungs from the ends
- While still in the kneeling position, grasp the nearest rung on the fly side with the inside hand
- Place the outside hand on the most comfortable rung on the bed side
- Stand up, lifting the ladder to the shoulder with the inside hand
Two members - (engine) 26’ or less ground extension ladder beam carry
- Member in charge will be at the butt
- Unlock the ladders
- Facing the butt, with the outside hand on the upper beam and the inside hand between the 2nd and 3rd rungs from the ends, remove the ladder
- When the ladder is clear, place their inside hand through the rungs and carry the ladder to the objective
Two member - (ladder truck) 35’ or less ground extension ladder cradle carry
- One member is positioned on each side of the ladder
- Release the ladder locks
- Pull the ladder out of the rack halfway
- Face the ladder and spread their arms a comfortable distance on the beams
- Continue to pull the ladder out out until it is free of the ladder rack
- Carry the ladder to the objective
Three members - (ladder truck) 35’ or less ground ladder flat carry
- Member in charge will be in the center on the right beam or at the right butt position
- Two of the members grasp the ladder and begin to pull it from the ladder rack
- The member on the side of the ladder with two members will continue out with the butt of the ladder
- When the ladder is sufficiently removed from the rack, the single member will grasp the beam in the center of the ladder, while the other two members will grasp the beam between the 2nd and 3rd rungs from the ends
- Once the ladder has been removed from the rack it is raised with the command “to the shoulder”
- Carry to the objective
Three members - from the ground 35’ ground extension ladder or less flat carry
- Team gets into position and kneels facing the tip with their inside knee down
- On the command “lift”, the members stand up and pivot in toward the ladder and end up facing the butt end with the ladder on their shoulder
- Carry to the objective
Four or five members - (Ladder truck) 40’ or longer ground extension ladder flat carry
- Two members are positioned on each side of the ladder rack at the rear of the apparatus
- One member on each side pulls the ladder out of the rack until they have positioned themselves between the 2nd and 3rd rungs
- The two members continue pulling until the ladder is almost free of the ladder rack
- Two remaining members grasp the ladder between the 2nd and 3rd rungs from the top before it is free of the ladder rack
- When the ladder is free of the ladder rack and the member at the right butt position gives the command “to the shoulder”, the ladder is lifted to the shoulder
- Carry to the objective
When positioning a ladder for raising, approach the building at a ___ whenever possible
90° angle
If a beam raise is used, pivot the ladder so that the ___ before extending the fly
Bed is away from the building
When positioning a ladder for raising, only approach parallel to the building if ___
Space does not allow a perpendicular access
On a beam raise parallel to the building, raise the ladder ___
With the fly toward the objective when possible
Ladders are normally positioned into the ___ side of the window or opening when ready for climbing so that ___
- Left
- The ladder can be exited on the member’s right
The ultimate factor governing the final position of the ladder will be dependent on ___
Fire conditions, anticipated future conditions, and wind
Generally, SFD ladders will be utilized in the ___ configuration
Fly “in”
If the window or opening is too small to accommodate the width of the ladder and allow people to climb on or off, place the ladder tip ___
Below the opening as one would for rescue
Use extreme caution in placing the tips of the ladder below the window because ___
The tip of the ladder may not be mechanically held from falling such as being inside a window opening
How to position the ladder for rescue
Place the tip of the ladder immediately below the lower edge or sill of the opening and remove people over the sill and down the ladder
It is important, during a rescue, that the fly is extended to the proper distance and the dogs are locked before the ladder is placed into the building or within the victim’s reach because ___
Victims can/will jump or grab at the ladder tip before it is set against the objective
The best place to place the ladder to work from it
Alongside the window or opening on the windward side if possible
Fire streams that are to be operated from a ground ladder should have the tip placed ___. This will allow ___
- Just above the top of the opening (header)
- The hose line to be placed away from the window opening while still giving the hose team members the best vantage point for defensive operations into the desired area
When spotting a ladder, avoid setting it in front of windows and doorways which may become ___
Involved in fire
Ladders should be placed ___ if conditions permit
At the corners of the structure
When extending the fly of a two section ladder, each click of the dogs results in ___ of extension
14”
When extending the fly of a three section ladder, each click of the dogs results in ___ of extension
28”
When extending a ladder to a roof, when possible, place at least ___ above the parapet or gutter line
5 rungs of the ladder
Why should the ladder extend 5 rungs above the roof?
Allows easier and safer transition from the ladder to the roof and back again. Also provides a landmark that is easy to locate for members on the roof in case of rapid evacuation
When a window or opening is tall and wide enough for the ladder tip to be placed inside the opening, ensure that ___
2 to 3 rungs are placed above the sill line
Why are 2 to 3 rungs placed over the sill line?
Ensures that hands can be used to grip the ladder once the member is above the sill level and while transitioning into the building
Purpose of heeling a ladder
Keep the butt under control and prevent it from shifting or moving
Heeling a ladder is accomplished by ___
Applying body weight to the ladder through placement of feet on the bottom rung or spurs
Heeling the ladder - flat raise
- Member at the butt steps onto the bottom rung, grasps the halyard bundle with either hand, and allows their weight to hang back. The other hand is rested on the beam to maintain balance
- Step off the rung just prior to the ladder coming to vertical
- Grasp the outside of each beam of the bed section with both hands and shoulder level keeping the back locked
With most ladders, the halyard is grasped ___
Between the 2nd and 3rd rungs
Heeling the ladder - lowering to the ground
- As the ladder leaves the vertical position, step on the bottom rung with both feet
- At the same time grasp all the ropes of the halyard in either hand and allow the body weight to hang back
- Use the other hand to maintain balance
Heeling the ladder - beam raise
- Stand facing the tip at the butt on the bed side
- Check the direction in which the ladder will be raised for obstructions and personnel
- State “overhead clear”
- Place the appropriate foot on the spur of the beam that is on the ground (right foot for raising on the right beam, left foot for raising on the left beam)
- Other foot drops back a step
- The outside shoulder is slightly ahead
- As the ladder is raised, the outside hand reaches out to grasp the bed side beam and the other hand is placed on the fly side beam
Heeling the ladder - beam lower
- While the ladder is in the vertical position, the member in charge will designate the beam on which the ladder will be lowered
- Member on the bed side will place the appropriate foot on the inside portion of the spur on the designated beam (right spur right foot, left spur left foot)
- Other foot placed one foot out away from the ladder, both feet shoulder width apart
- Both hands placed on the opposite beam designated. The hand that is placed on the bed section beam will be at about shoulder height, the hand on the beam of the fly section will be placed below the other
- The member footing the ladder will check the direction the ladder will be lowered for obstructions and personnel
- State “overhead clear, clear behind, ladder coming down”
To prevent injury when footing a ladder with a beam raise or lower, at no time should the groin, rear leg, or knee be in line with the ___
Spur of the ladder
A ladder will be footed any time it is ___
Shifted, pivoted, or brought to the vertical as well as any other time it is unsteady while in the vertical position
Main purpose of footing
Prevents the ladder from rocking left and right
If ever the ladder is starting to top left or right, early footing will prevent ___
The member’s loss of control
Bed side responsibilities with one member
- As the ladder comes to vertical and is pivoted or shifted, the member will grasp the bed section beams, step up on the first rung with their left foot, and heel the ladder with their weight until it is steady
- Once stable, the member steps down with the right foot following the beam so the right toe of the boot ends up against the spur
- The left foot then steps down and back, ending up about 2 to 3 feet from the butt of the ladder
Bed side responsibilities with two members
- Both members step up on the rung with their inside foot, applying their full weight to stabilize on the ladder
- When steady, they both step down with the outside foot to the spur
- Inside foot steps back about 2’
Fly side responsibilities
- After the ladder has come to vertical, the member on the fly side will step back from the spurs with both hands grasping the outside of each bed section beam
- Step back, into a comfortable staggered foot position, allowing for good balance and stability
- Feet placed about 1 to 2 feet back from each other, about shoulder-width apart
- Allow the ladder to lean in slightly toward the objective, to assist in the extension of the ladder
Heeling the ladder - lowering into the objective - one member facing the objective (bed side)
- On the command “into the building” member on the bed side places their left foot on the center of the bottom rung, keeping the other foot off the ground and back for counterbalance
- Grasp the 4th rung from the spur
- Use the weight of the body to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding out
- Lower the ladder to the objective (member on the fly side will assist this movement with their hands on the beams)
Heeling the ladder - lowering into the objective - two members facing the objective (bed side)
- On the command “into the building”, the members on the bed side place their inside foot on the bottom rung of the ladder keeping the other foot on the ground
- Use the inside hand to grasp the 4th rung from the spur
- Use the outside hand on the appropriate beam
- Use the weight of their bodies to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding out as they lower the ladder to the objective
- Member on the fly side will assist this movement with their hands on the beams
Heeling the ladder - lowering into the objective - one member with back to the objective (fly side)
- On the command “into the building” the member on the fly side of the ladder will have both hands grasping the outside of each beam of the bed section
- Member then steps back, into a comfortable staggered foot position, feet placed about 1 to 2 feet back from each other about shoulder-width apart
- Bring the ladder into the objective in unison with the members on the bed side of the ladder
Heeling the ladder - out from the objective - one member facing the objective (bed side)
- On the command “out from the building” member on the bed side places their left foot on the center of the bottom rung, keeping the other foot on the ground
- Grasp the 4th rung from the spur
- Use the weight of the body to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding
- Slowly pull the ladder out from the objective
- After the ladder has come to vertical, place the right foot on the right spur when stepping down from the rung (member on the fly side will assist this movement with their hands on the beams
Heeling the ladder - out from the objective - two members facing the objective (bed side)
- On the command “out from the building” the members on the bed side place their inside foot on the bottom rung, keeping the other foot on the ground
- Grasp the 4th rung
- Use the weight of their bodies to keep the base of the ladder from sliding
- Slowly pull the ladder out from the objective (member on the fly side will assist this movement with their hands on the beams)
- After the ladder has come to vertical, place their outside foot on the spur while stepping down from the rung
Heeling the ladder - out from the objective - one member with back to the objective (fly side)
- On the command “out from the building” the member on the fly side of the ladder will have both hands grasping the outside of each beam of the bed section
- Step back, into a comfortable staggered foot position
- Slowly push the ladder out away from the objective to a position just short of vertical in unison with the members on the bed side of the ladder
The turning of the ladder in the appropriate direction on a designated spur while it is in the vertical position
Pivoting
The member giving the command to pivot will first ___. Then, as part of the same command will ___
- Designate the beam on which the pivot will be made
- Designate the direction of the pivot (in or out)
To help avoid confusion with the command to pivot for members on the fly side, members on the bed side will ___
Slap the beam that is designated for the pivot
The ladder will be pivoted on the designated beam toward the fly side of the ladder
In
The ladder will be pivoted on the designated beam toward the bed side of the ladder
Out
Every pivot command assumes a ___ turn unless directed otherwise in the command
1/4
The members on the bed section will ___ after each pivot
Foot the ladder
Pivoting ladder less than 40’ in length - members on the bed side
- Place hands on both bed side beams
- Push the ladder onto the designated beam
- Pivot the ladder
- Set the ladder and foot it
Pivoting ladder less than 40’ in length - member on the fly side
- Place hands on both fly side beams
- Push the ladder onto the designated beam
- Pivot the ladder
- Help steady the ladder (members on bed side will foot the ladder)
When the ladder is stabilized in the raised position, both members on the poles stand ___
Facing each other about 10’ apart on the bed side
Rules for the pole positions
- Always watch the tip of the ladder, glancing down when needed
- Never walk backwards
- Only one member on the poles moves at a time
- Ensure the stability of the ladder prior to moving the poles to a new position
To move poles correctly on command, the member pays attention to their ___
Hand position
Right pole position hand position
Facing the other pole member, left hand is on the spike and arms spread out. Left hand is in closest to the body, and the right hand is out away from the body
Left pole position hand position
Facing the other pole member, right hand is on the spike and arms spread out. Right hand is in closest to the body, and the left hand is out away from the body
The member on the right pole will move on the command “on the right beam, pivot out” because ___
Their right hand is out
The member on the right pole will move on the command “on the left beam, pivot in” because ___
Their left hand is in
The member on the left pole will move on the command “on the left beam, pivot out” because ___
Their left hand is out
The member on the left pole will move on the command “on the right beam, pivot in” because ___
Their right hand is in
When the pivot command is given, the member on the designated pole will move to the other side of the pole around the end so that it can be ___
Moved without walking backward
The member with the designated pole will walk forward until the pole is ___ both beams
2’ past being in line with
After moving 2’ past the beams with the pole will ___
Again move to the other side of the pole while still holding onto it so that both pole members face each other
When the command is given to pivot the ladder, the member on the bed side, on the respective beam, will first ___
Designate the beam that the ladder will be pivoted on by slapping it twice
When the ladder is pivoted to the desired position, it is ___, each and every time
Set and footed
The member on the pole that has not moved will then ___ when the ladder is steady
Move back to the appropriate position
Members on the poles shall talk to one another using ___
Simple commands such as “push” or “pull”
Any member of the team may request that a pole member pushes or pulls if ___
The safety of the team or stability of the ladder is in question
All members should develop the habit of watching the ___
Tip of the ladder, glancing at other positions when needed
This operation is performed so that a ladder can be moved parallel to a building or object while in the vertical position, and can be accomplished by a command or on an individual basis
Shifting ladder
If the member is given the command to shift, they will be first given a ___
Preparatory command of “prepare to shift” and then the direction in which the ladder is to be shifted
The member will be on the ___ side of the ladder when the command to shift is given and will ___
- Bed side of the ladder
- Move to the opposite beam called for
Shift ladder - one member - 26’ or less ground extension ladder
- Move to the opposite beam called for
- At the same time, reach down and grab the 2nd rung of the bed section with the right hand and reach around to the fly of the ladder with the left hand and grasp the right beam (opposite if shifting left)
- Hand on the 2nd rung will be lifting the ladder on the bed section
- State “overhead clear”
- On the command “Lift” lift the ladder and allow the ladder to balance on the shoulder and slightly across the front of the body
- On the command “shift” the ladder will be moved in the direction ordered
- On the command “halt - lower” the member will take one additional step forward
- Bring feet together and come to a stop
- Set the ladder to the ground
- Foot the ladder
Shift ladder - two members - 35’ or less ground extension ladder
- On the command “prepare to shift - (right or left) the member on the bed side will slap the beam of the direction indicated
- Member on the fly side faces the beam indicated, reaches through with the hand of the same side between the 2nd and 3rd rungs, and grasps the 2nd rung of the bed section nearest the beam indicated
- Member on the fly side grasps the fly section of the same beam about shoulder height
- Member on the bed side faces the beam indicated and grasps the 2nd rung of the bed section near the opposite beam with their hand opposite the beam indicated
- Member on the bed side grasps the beam indicated with the hand on that side
- Both members should be squatting
- State “overhead clear”
- On the command “lift” Lift the ladder in unison and balance the ladder, tilting the tip slightly back
- On the command “shift” Move the ladder in the direction ordered (bed side member watches the ground and fly side member watches the tip)
- On the command “halt - lower” take one additional step forward and then bring the feet together and stop, set the ladder to the ground, and foot the ladder
One member fly extension
- Place the inside of the right foot to the back of the right spur of the ladder (be sure the toe is not in a position where the fly section could drop)
- Position the knee of the same leg on the bed side of the right beam
- Opposite foot should be a comfortable distance in back to help keep the balance of the ladder
- Reach up using a hand-over-hand motion to extend the halyard
- On the command “high” lock the fly at the next highest rung
- Ensure the dogs are locked
While extending the fly section by yourself, how to keep the ladder balanced?
Use your right shin to push the ladder against the right beam to push it away. Use the halyard to pull back to pull it closer
At no time shall any member reach through a rung space or touch a rung with the hands or feet until ___
All dogs are locked
Two member fly extension
- Members positioned one on the fly side, one on the bed side
- Bed side member will place their right toe against the right spur of the ladder. Opposite foot should be a comfortable distance back to help balance the ladder. Reach up using a hand-over-hand motion to extend the halyard, pulling straight down and inline with the center of the ladder.
- Fly side member will place both hands on the beams of the bed section and maintain balance with the ladder tilted slightly toward the objective
- On the command “high” lock to the next highest rung
- Ensure the dogs are locked
Three member fly extension
- Two members on the bed side, and one one the fly side
- On the command “extend the fly” both bed side members reach for the halyard with the inside hand. Taller member (or member on the right beam if same height) calls “high” and takes the higher hand position on the halyard. Both bed side members have their outside toe in front and against their respective bed side spurs
- Fly side member will place both hands on the beams of the bed section at shoulder height and maintain balance with the ladder lilted slightly toward the objective. Feet are shoulder-width apart, on foot ahead of the other. Foot closest to the ladder will be about 1 to 2 feet away from the butt. Use body weight to manipulate the ladder in or out, by locking the back leg and locking the arms
- Ensure the dogs are locked
Three member lowering the fly
- On the command “lower the fly” only the member on the right beam will manipulate the halyard
- If the member on the right is having difficulty getting the fly in motion, the other member may assist and then turn the halyard over to the member at the right beam
- Lower using a hand-over-hand method
Never let the halyard ___
Slide through your hands
Securing the halyard on a 2 section ladder
- Excess is pushed from the bed side of the ladder between rungs 3 and 4
- Pull excess back toward member through rungs 2 and 3
- Round turn around rung 3
- Two half hitches are placed above the rung around the halyard
Best way to remember which rungs to put the excess halyard through on a two section ladder
Push 4/3, pull 3/2
Securing the halyard on a 3 section ladder
Same as a two section ladder, except:
- The excess is pulled from the fly side of the ladder between rungs 2 and 3
Why might there be insufficient halyard length to secure the ladder?
Minimum extension of the ladder
How to secure a ladder with insufficient halyard length
- Using a utility strap, form a hose knot around the lowest set of double rungs
- Round turn is made on the rung below by passing the tail end behind and under the rung
- Tie two half hitches on the vertical part of the utility strap
Alternate method to secure a ladder with insufficient halyard length
Extend the halyard using a hose knot with the utility strap on the halyard between rungs 2 and 3, and then tying a round turn and two half hitches on the third rung
The member securing the fly shall have the ___ foot ___
- Left
- On the bottom rung
Any excess halyard that is left after tying will be ___
Pushed through to the fly side of the ladder
Adjusting the butt of the ladder is performed while the ladder is ___
In the vertical position and against the objective with the halyard secured
Adjusting the butt of a ladder with one member on the bed side
- Reach down with either hand and grasp the 1st or 2nd rung from the spur
- Grasp the 4th or 5th rung with the other hand
- Lift the butt of the ladder off the ground
- Looking up, adjust the ladder as needed
Adjusting the butt of a ladder with two members on the bed side
- Member on the right beam will reach down with the left hand to grasp the 1st or 2nd rung from the spur, and the right hand will grasp the 4th or 5th rung
- Member on the left beam will mirror the member on the right beam
- Together both members will lift the ladder
- Adjust the ladder as needed
Safety items to be checked before climbing a ladder
- Ladder spurs are secure and will not slip
- Wedge the ladder on uneven ground
- Ladder is resting firmly on the objective
- Ladder locks are secured on all flys and the bed section
- Tip is properly secured with a ladder anchor or is footed at the butt
- Fly is properly secured with a halyard or body loop
- Verify proper climbing angle
- Tormentor poles are properly set
- Proper hand placement when climbing
When climbing a ground extension ladder, place your hands ___
On the rungs or slide them up the beams
When climbing an arial ladder, place your hands ___
On the trussed hand rail
When climbing a straight ladder fire escape, place your hands ___
Always with hands on the beams, not the rungs
Tormentor poles should be set ___ whenever possible
Parallel to the building
Members facing the objective will look ___ when heeling a ladder
Up
Proper climbing angle
About 70°
Ladder climbing should be done smoothly and rhythmically in order to ___
Minimize bouncing and swaying
In ascending or descending a ladder, climb near the ___ on the ___ of the foot
- Center of the rungs
- Arch
While climbing, the back should be ___ and the climber’s arms ___
- Near perpendicular with the ground
- Almost fully extended
When climbing, the hands should be grasping the rungs ___
Palms down and one hand grasping a rung at all times or sliding down the beam
When using the beams to climb, the hands should run ___
Behind the beams
Times when the ladder tips will need to be anchored
- Extended operations
- Operating fire streams
- Working from a ladder while locked in
The ladder anchor should be brought to the tip or fly section being secured by the ___
Safest means possible
Two common methods of bringing the ladder anchor to the tip
- Holding it in a hand while sliding that hand along a beam
- Placing it in a pocket while climbing
Secure the ladder anchor hook over ___
The object (attempt to sink the hook into dry wall to hook the actual sill or structural member of a parapet wall
Securing a ladder anchor
- Bring anchor to the tip safely
- Secure the hook
- Make a loop starting with going over the 1st rung below the sill/edge
- Take the rope behind and under the 2nd rung making a round turn
- Tie two half hitches to the rope that extends down from the 1st to 2nd rung
Maintain ___ when working on the ladder
Three points of contact with the ladder
Members performing work while on a ladder should be ___ so that both hands are free for use
Locked-in
Procedure for locking-in
- Climb one rung above the height you desire to work
- Using the leg opposite the side on which you wish to work, circle the leg over and back under the rung above the one on which you are standing
- Step down one rung, locking in with the leg (shorter members may not need to step down one rung)
- Lock the toe under the next rung down or on the beam
The overall goal of locking in
Establish a secure position
Members shall not lock-in on any ladder that is ___
Not secured at the tip or any type of aerial ladder device
Technique used to stabilize the butt of a ladder when the terrain at the spurs in uneven
Wedging
All ___ companies carry wooden wedges
Ladder
A member can use wedges to stabilize a ladder ___
One at a time or two wedges apposing each other
What else besides wedges can be used to even up the base of the ladder?
Other materials at the scene, such as tarps
If a spur is not touching the found after the ladder is placed into the climbing position, it is ___
Steadied by placing the wedge or tarp between the spur and the ground making positive contact with both
Ladder raises used by SFD
- Cradle raise
- Beam raise
- Flat raise
General rules for ladder raises
- Raise perpendicular to the building if possible
- On flat raises, ladders are placed so that when raised to a vertical position, the fly side is toward the building
- Members should watch the tip when raising, lowering, extending, or retracting the fly, and when pivoting or shifting
Reasons to watch the tip of a ladder
- First and foremost, above the tip is where the action is. Jumpers, falling debris, and fire conditions are in this area
- To determine if the ladder is tipping, leaning or beginning to fall
- To watch for falling material from the objective
- To consistently watch for overhead obstructions
Beam raise - one member - 26’ or less ground extension or straight ladder from low shoulder carry
- Grasp the top beam with the outside hand while removing the inside hand from between the rungs to grasp the lower beam
- To help support the weight and keep the balance of the ladder during movement of the hands, lift the inside knee to support the lower beam
- If necessary, raise the ladder up on its lower beam, and when almost to vertical pivot the ladder 1/4 turn so that the fly is closest to the building
- When the ladder has come to a vertical position it shall be footed
Beam raise - one member - 26’ or less ground extension or straight ladder from the high shoulder carry
- Raise the ladder up on its lower beam
- When almost vertical, pivot 1/4 turn so that the fly is closest to the building
- When the ladder has come to a vertical position it shall be footed
A single member will lower the ladder into the building by ___
Placing the left foot on the bottom rung while holding onto the 4th rung with both hands
One member - lower a 26’ or less ground extension or straight ladder
- Release the halyard
- Place the left foot on the bottom rung
- Place the hands on the 4th rung
- Pull the ladder tip out from the building
- Lower the fly
- Once the fly is lowered and ladder locks are set, prepare to lower the ladder to the ground
- If needed, shift the butt of the ladder to the building and prepare to lower
- Turn your head and look in the direction to which the ladder will be lowered to ensure that there are not obstacles in your path, including the overhead
- State “overhead clear, clear behind, ladder coming down”
- With both hands on the beams, or hand-over-hand on the rungs, lower the ladder to the ground
Beam raise - two members - 35’ or less ground extension or straight ladder
- From the beam carry position, bring the ladder to the desired location
- On the command “ground the butt” the member on the butt will lower the butt of the ladder so that the spur of the lower beam will be grounded at the desired point
- Command “prepare to raise”
- Response: Member in charge (at the butt) will check the over head area for obstructions and state “Overhead clear”
- Member at the tip (#2) will remove the ladder from the shoulder and prepare to raise the beam (If a beam is parallel to the objective is necessary and the butt has been grounded with the bed toward the objective, the member at the tip can quickly roll the ladder over their head)
- The member at the butt (#1) will heel the ladder on the bed side
- The member at the tip will raise the ladder by moving toward the butt with a hand-over-hand motion on the beam
- When vertical, #1 will foot the ladder from the bed side, #2 maintains the balance of the ladder on the fly side by placing both hands on the beams
- Extend, place into the building, and secure the tip
Lower ladder 35’ or less with 2 members on the beam
- On the command “release the tip” the member on the fly side will release the tip
- Member on the bed side will release the halyard
- On the command “out from the building” members on both sides bring the ladder out from the building. Member facing the objective will foot the ladder by placing a foot on the bottom rung while holding onto the 4th rung up. Member on the fly side will assist bringing the tip out from the building with hands on the beams
- On the command “lower the fly” member on the bed side will lower the fly hand-over-hand
- On the command “prepare to lower on the (right or left) beam” member on the bed side will foot the ladder. Member on the fly side will step to the designated beam and grasp the beam with both hands
- Member footing the ladder will check the direction the ladder will be lowered and state “overhead clear, clear behind, ladder coming down”
- On the command “lower” fly side member will slowly walk backward while grasping the beam of the ladder with a hand-over-hand motion and lower it to the ground
- On the command “prepare to lift” members will go to the positions needed for the carry and prepare to lift
- On the command “lift” the ladder is lifted
- On the command “stow the ladder” return the ladder, tip first, to the apparatus
The beam raise is most commonly used for raising the ladder when it is ___
Beam carried to the objective
Beam carries can be accomplished on either shoulder as long as ___
Both members are on the bed side
Typically, if taken from an apparatus, beam carries will be on the ___
Right shoulder
It is the responsibility of ___to survey the area where a ladder is to be raised
All personnel
Beam raise - three members - 35’ or less ground extension ladder
Same as the 2 member beam raise with the exception that after spotting the ladder to the correct location, and after it has come to vertical, the member in charge (#1) will step in at the right beam
If a beam raise parallel to the objective is necessary and the butt has been grounded with the bed toward the objective, ___
The member at the tip can quickly roll the ladder over their head
What will the person in charge do when lowering a ladder with three members on the beam?
When the ladder prepares to be lowered, step out of position to observe the direction in which the ladder will be lowered and check for obstructions
Flat raise - one member - 26’ or less ladder
- Carry into the desired location
- Check the overhead area for obstructions
- Place the butt of the ladder against the building with the fly side up
- Lay the ladder on the ground
- Position your body so that you are at the tip looking down the ladder toward the butt and the objective
- Crouch down, grasp the tip of the ladder, and lift
- When the ladder reaches shoulder height, step under the ladder
- Walk the ladder hand-over-hand using the center of the rungs or slide your hands along the beams until the ladder is vertical and flat against the building
- Pull the butt out from the building by grasping the 1st and 4th or 2nd and 5th rungs and adjust the butt
- Place the left foot on the bottom rung and grasp the 4th rung from the spurs
- Pull the tip out from the building
- Step down with the right foot to the right spur
- Extend the fly to the desired height
- Ensure the dogs are locked
- Lower into the building, footing the ladder with the left foot on the bottom rung while holding onto the 4th rung
- Secure the halyard
- Adjust the butt if applicable
One member lower a 26’ or less ladder flat
Reverse of raising
Flat raise - three member - 35’ or less ladder
- From a flat carry, bring the ladder to the objective and properly position
- Member in charge will check the overhead area and state “overhead clear”
- Command “ready - halt”
- On the command “lower the ladder” place the ladder on the ground, fly side up
- Command “prepare to raise”
- Check for wires and overhead obstructions
- State “overhead clear”
- Personnel rotate clockwise
- On the command “raise” raise to the vertical position by the two members on the beam using a hand-over-hand motion with both hands on the beam
- When ladder is vertical, the members on the bed side will foot the ladder, then place their outside toe in front and against the bed side spurs
- The member at the butt will step up onto the bottom rung, and grasp the halyard ropes in both hands
- when the ladder is vertical the member at the butt will step back off the ladder and place both hands on the beams and their feet are placed shoulder width apart, on foot ahead of the other. Ladder tilted towards the objective
Flat raise - 4 member - 40’ tormentor ground extension ladder or greater
- Carry the ladder to the objective and properly position
- Member in charge will check the overhead area and state “overhead clear”
- Command “ready - halt”
- On the command “lower the ladder” place the ladder on the ground, fly side up
- On the command “prepare to raise - pass the poles” member in charge will begin to move to a position to receive the poles
- Member on the left beam at the butt will move to the butt of the ladder between the spurs and prepare to pass the poles
- Two members at the tip will stay in position to help pass the poles
- Member in charge will again check the overhead and state “overhead clear”
- Member in charge has moved to a position facing the tip of the ladder and prepares to receive the spikes of the poles
- The member on the butt will release the poles and pass them to the members on the beams
- The members on the beams will continue to pass the poles to the member in charge
- The member on the poles grasps a pole in each hand with arms on the outside of the poles while standing between the poles (the poles also may be held with the spikes between the middle and ring fingers with palms up and both arms on the outside of the poles while standing between the poles)
- On the command “raise” the member in charge of the poles must take care that the swivels are rotated outward and to hold the poles outward from the body when the ladder first lifts off the ground
- The poles are pulled back in once they have passed the beams
- The ladder is raised to vertical by the wo members on the beams, using a hand-over-hand motion with both hands on their respective beams
- When the ladder is vertical, the members on the bed side will foot the ladder, then place their outside toe in front and against the bed side spurs
- Member at the butt will step up onto the bottom rung, and grasp the halyard ropes in both hands as the ladder is raised
- When the ladder is vertical, the member at the butt will step back off the ladder and place both hands on the beams at shoulder height, feet shoulder width apart, one foot ahead of the other, the closest about 1 to 2 feet behind the butt. Ladder tilted slightly to the objective
- The member on the poles will assist in pushing the ladder to vertical after the ladder is over the head of the members on the beam
- When certain the ladder is stable, pole member will give the command “fly side around”
- Member on the fly side of the ladder will move to receive the left tormentor pole and will turn, walk out laterally to the pole position, then move around to the outside of the pole so that #1 is in view
- When #4 is in control of the ladder, #1 moves the same movements on the right side
- The members are in a position on the outside of the poles facing each other, outside the beams by about 4’
- On the command “extend the fly” the two members on the bed reach for the halyard with their inside hand. The taller or member on the right will call “high” and place their hand higher up
- Extend the fly
- Command “high”
- Command “into the building”
- Command “secure the halyard”
- Command “adjust the butt” if applicable
- On the command “set the poles” the poles are moved from the butt to a position parallel to the objective and the spoke is allowed to rest on the ground
- On the command “secure the tip” the member at the left butt will secure the tip with a ladder anchor
lower the ladder - 4 member - 40’ tormentor ground extension ladder or greater
- Command “release the tip”
- Command “out with the poles”
- Command “release the halyard”
- Command “out from the building”
- Command “lower the fly”
- On the command “prepare to lower, left pole around” the member on the left pole will give it to the right pole member and move the the fly side of the ladder and prepare to foot it
- Member in charge on the poles will check the direction for the ladder to be lowered for obstructions and state “overhead clear, clear behind, ladder coming down”
- On the command “lower” the member on the fly side will step up onto the bottom rung and grasp the halyard tightly with the hands
- The member on the bed side will slowly walk backward while grasping the beam with a hand over hand motion until they are just short of the pole swivels, then turn out from each other and lower the ladder to the ground
- On the command “pass the poles” the member in charge will again check the overhead for obstructions and state “overhead clear”
- Member in charge passes both poles to the members on the beams and moves to the right butt of the ladder
- The members on the beams will swing the poles overhead and pass them to the member at the butt of the ladder
- The member at the butt will set the poles on the ladder and move to the left beam at the butt
- Command “prepare to lift”
- Command “lift”
- Command “stow the ladder”
Cradle raise - two member - 35’ or less ladder
- Member in charge checks the overhead and states “overhead clear”
- On the command “ground the butt” both members put weight on the butt end of the ladder forcing it to the ground
- Both members continue to place weight on the butt with the lower hand while raising the ladder with the upper hand until the ladder is vertical
- Member on the right beam will move to the bed side of the ladder and foot the ladder
- Member on the left beam will move to the fly side of the ladder to hold the ladder vertical, tilted slightly toward the objective
The cradle raise is used following the cradle carry when the two members are ___
Directly across from each other on the beams of the ladder
Flat lower
- Member on the fly side will heel the ladder
- The member on the bed side will slowly walk backward while grasping the center of the rungs with a hand-over-hand motion to the end of the ladder and lower it to the ground
Cradle lower
- Both members move to the beams and with a hand-over-hand motion down the beams move toward the tip
- At the balance point, they will turn to face each other and assume the cradle carry stance
- Allow the tip of the ladder to move down, do not allow the tip to hit the ground
Cradle carry, flat raise - two members - 35’ or less ladder
- From the cradle carry position, bring the ladder to the desired location
- Command “ready - halt”
- On the command “lower the ladder” place the ladder on the ground, fly side up
- On the command “prepare to raise” member in charge will check the overhead for obstructions and state “overhead clear”
- Member #1 moves to the tip to lift the ladder
- Member #2 moves to the butt to foot the ladder
- On the command “raise” the ladder is raised to vertical by #1 with a hand-over-hand motion on the center of the rungs
- The member at the butt will grasp the halyards tightly , and step up on the bottom rung with both feet as the ladder is raised
- Ladder is footed by the member on the bed side
Roof ladder up a ground extension ladder
- Carry the roof ladder from the apparatus to the location at the base of the ladder
- Place the roof ladder on the ground with the beams straddling the same beam that you expect to work off of
- Move to the tip of the roof ladder
- Pick up the tip and open the hooks of the ladder to the upwards positions
- Facing the tip of the roof ladder, raise the ladder to the vertical position, hand-over-hand on the rungs
- Turn the roof ladder so that the hooks are to the outside, facing away from the extension ladder
- Lay the roof ladder beam on the rungs and against the chosen beam of the extension ladder (the hooks of the roof ladder are facing away from the ground ladder)
- Climb the ground ladder with the chosen arm over the beam of the roof ladder to balance it
- The opposite hand will grasp a rung or the respective beam of the ground ladder
- Climb to a position to reach between rungs 2 and 3 or 3 and 4 from the tip of the roof ladder
- Put the arm that is closest to the roof ladder through this rung space and pull the roof ladder onto the shoulder
- Using the foot nearest the roof ladder, push the butt of the roof ladder off the ground ladder so that it hangs to the side, clearing the ground ladder
- Begin to climb the ground ladder. Keep the hand and arm that is carrying the roof ladder high
- Climb the ladder to the position where the roof ladder is to be used
- If the ground ladder is secured, lock-in the free both hands to work
- If the ground ladder is not anchored, the member can position their body half way above the roof edge, reach through the rungs on the extension ladder with one hand, and with a hand-over-hand motion on the rungs of the roof ladder, lift it into the desired position
- After the roof ladder has been lifted to its midpoint, position the hooks facing down, and lower them to the roof
- Push the ladder toward the peak until the hooks pass over
- WHen properly placed, the roof ladder beam will be directly in line with the outside of the extension ladder beam, and be perpendicular with the roof eaves
- Test the hooks by pulling downward on the ladder
Removing the roof ladder
- Climb the ground ladder to the position of the roof ladder
- Lower the roof ladder
- Rotate the ladder so the hooks are away from the ground ladder
- Slide the ladder down on the beam to a position where the member can place the same arm between the 2nd and 3rd rung
- Descend the ladder until the spurs of the roof ladder touch the ground
- Lay the beam of the roof ladder on the rungs and against the same beam of the ground ladder. Hooks facing away from the ladder.
- Climb down with the arm over the roof ladder to balance it
- Once on the ground, pull the roof ladder to vertical
- Rotate the roof ladder so the hooks face the extension ladder
- Ensure the beams of the roof ladder straddle the ground ladder
- Lower the ladder to the ground, secure the hooks, and stow the ladder
First rung at the tip of the roof ladder does not ___
Constitute a rung
Ground ladder 26’ or less up an extension ladder
- Ladder is placed into the building, and anchored. Must extend far enough beyond the roof to allow the member to lock in above it
- 26’ ladder is laid on the ground at the base of the ground ladder with the left spur of the 26’ ladder next to the right beam of the ground ladder
- If body loops are used, use a hose knot to place two body loops around the right beam. One between the 2nd and 3rd rung from the tip, the other between the 2nd and 3rd rung from the butt
- 26’ ladder raised to vertical
- Pivot on the left beam so that it can be laid onto the rungs next to the right beam of the extended ladder
- One member steadies the 26’ ladder
- Other member climbs and passes the right arm between the 2nd and 3rd rung from the tip (or through the body loop if one is used) and rests it on the shoulder
- The second member takes their position in he same manner as the first member
- Lifting together, climb with right arms held high with hands on the rungs
- Member on the bottom will coordinate by saying “step” when each rung is to be climbed
- The member at the tip will lock-in above the roof and withdraw the arm while setting the tip of the 26’ ladder on the edge of the objective
- Member on the bottom continues to climb until the 26’ ladder reaches the balance point on the objective
- Member who is lock-in will assist by keep the ladder balanced on the beam
- The member on the bottom will withdraw the arm so that the member on top can tip the ladder into the room or onto the roof
- Member at the top unlocks, steps over the 26’ ladder onto the objective and pulls the ladder in while the other member steadies it on the beam
- Member on the bottom climbs the ladder and steps onto the roof or into the building
- Carry the ladder to the objective
- Reverse to bring ladder back down
Hoisting a ladder with a rope
- Ladder is placed at the proper climbing angle, unextended, with the fly toward the building, directly below where it is to be hoisted
- End of a roof rope is secured to a fixed object at the desired upper location and dropped to the ground
- Member on the ground grasps the rope and takes a bight of the line at the spur of the ladder
- Climb the ladder and passes the bight from the bed side to the fly side through the first full rung space above the center of the ladder
- Bight passes behind the left beam and then around to the front side of the bed section
- Continue with the bight past the right beam and then around and behind it
- Pull the slack back through the same rung space from the fly side to the bed side
- Use the slack to tie a bowline on the line leading to the upper level, adjusted to the lateral center of the ladder
- Member on the ladder will climb down and direct the members hoisting to take a strain
- Ladder is pivoted 180° as the ladder begins to leave the ground
- Tie a half hitch to one spur to help control the ladder from the ground if enough rope is available
- On the command “hoist away” member on the ground assists in guiding it while being hoisted hand-over-hand until the ladder and knot come up to the edge
- Grasping the tip of the ladder, the members hoisting will turn the ladder onto its beam and pull the remaining portion into the objective
Lower a ladder with a rope
Reverse of hoisting, except the ladder is lowered bed side out with the knot on the outside of the ladder
Lowering a ground extension ladder from an overpass or parapet wall
- Drop a rope to measure the distance from the bottom of the pit or well to the edge and add 6’ to that length
- Lay the ladder down and turn onto a beam
- Utilizing the halyard, extend the flies of the ladder out to equal the length of the measured rope, including the extra 6’
- Secure the halyard and ensure the dogs are locked
- Using body loops, tie the rungs of the fly and bed section together in two places. If applicable tie the first fly section to the second fly section in the same way (use the same knot that is used to extend the halyard)
- Lay the ladder on its fly side
- Place the rope on top of the bed section
- Starting with the tail end of the rope at the butt, begin tying a bowline with a bight from the bed side at the next rung space below the center point of the ladder
- Place the ladder bed side down with the spurs hanging over the objective and the rope laying straight under the ladder toward the tip
- 3 or 4 members position along the ladder. one at the right beam and one at the left at the center of the ladder. One or two members will work the rope
- Two members at the beams will push the ladder over the edge
- The tip comes to vertical and is allowed to slide down while keeping tension on the rope
- Once the ladder has reached the bottom it is adjusted for climbing angle and flipped over to place the bed out
- One member will support the tip while it is being climbed
What is the purpose of adding an extra 6’ to the rope used to measure the depth of a pit or well?
Allow enough to extend over the wall once the ladder is in its final climbing position
Lowering a ladder into a pit or well
- Drop a rope to measure the distance from the bottom of the pit or well to the edge and add 6’ to that length
- Lay the ladder down and turn onto a beam
- Utilizing the halyard, extend the flies of the ladder out to equal the length of the measured rope, including the extra 6’
- Secure the halyard and ensure the dogs are locked
- Using body loops, tie the rungs of the fly and bed section together in two places. If applicable tie the first fly section to the second fly section in the same way (use the same knot that is used to extend the halyard)
- Tie the hoisting knot at the butt of the ladder from the bed side between the 2nd and 3rd rungs
- Place the ladder bed side down with the spurs hanging over the objective and the rope laying straight under the ladder toward the tip
- 3 or 4 members position along the ladder. one at the right beam and one at the left at the center of the ladder. One or two members will work the rope
- Two members at the beams will push the ladder over the edge, not allowing it slide into the pit or well until it is sufficiently raised
- The tip comes to vertical and is allowed to slide down while keeping tension on the rope
- Once the ladder has reached the bottom it is adjusted for climbing angle and flipped over to place the bed out
- One member will support the tip while it is being climbed
Exterior venting of windows with a ground ladder
- Procure a ladder that will reach the objective from the ground
- Position i to the left or right of the window to be ventilated
- Extend the fly so that the tip will be as close to the top of the window as possible
- Once the halyard is secured on the command “secure the halyard”, shift the butt of the ladder over to the center of the window to be ventilated
- On the command “out from the building” with goggles or facepiece in place, bring the ladder out from the building to vertical
- Pivot it to the center of the window to be ventilated
- On the command “prepare to ventilate” the member on the fly side of the ladder leaves their position to a safe place
- on the command “ventilate” Place their foot (inside foot if two members) on the bottom rung
- Forcefully push the ladder into the window
- At impact, step back to a safe place (the butt may slide out on impact)
- On the command “out from the building” return to the ladder and bring it out to vertical
- Pivot and lower into the building on the opposite side of the vented window
- Shift the butt over 4’ and the tip over 2’ (continue shifting the butt and tip in equal amounts until the next window is reached (if windows are a significant distance apart, lower the ladder and carry it to the next location)
If the fly in method of breaking windows with a ladder is ineffective, consider ___
Beam lowering the ladder into the window
EEW
Energy efficient windows
EEWs may have ___
Multiple panes (up to 3)
Weakest points of EEWs
The corners
Least effective method to break a window
Aiming for the center
