What is the primary use of a ladder truck at an incident scene?

The primary use of a ladder truck at an incident scene is to provide aerial access for firefighting or rescue operations. Ladder trucks are equipped with an extendable aerial ladder that can reach significant heights, which is essential for accessing upper floors of buildings during fire suppression efforts or conducting rescues. This capability allows firefighters to effectively combat flames and control hazardous situations from elevated positions, making it a critical tool in emergency responses, particularly in multi-story structures.

The design of ladder trucks prioritizes not only the reach and stability of the aerial device but also allows for the deployment of hoses and additional firefighting equipment from height. Furthermore, the platform at the top of the ladder can also be used for the safe evacuation of individuals in danger. This aerial capability distinguishes ladder trucks from other fire apparatus, such as pumper trucks, which might focus more on water supply and transport.