In today’s fire service we continually have to do more with less. As firefighters we have the mindset to improvise, adapt, and overcome problems we encounter. Unfortunately, we are now forced to accomplish this with fewer personnel on scene. To overcome this we need to look for clever ways to accomplish certain routine tasks. We often find ourselves having to throw ladders on concrete or similar slick surfaces and work off of them. How many videos have you seen where the ladder slips out from under a firefighter as they climb? Has it even happen to you? We all know no one wants to be the guy butting a ladder during a fire, and we certainly can’t afford to take someone away from performing more important tasks on the fireground. How about using the doormat found at the front door of a home? Yes the one that says “Welcome”! The doormat can be placed under the butt of your ladder allowing the ladder to grip the concrete better. These mats are commonly found at most doors leading into a home or commercial properties. Look for anything that may add some friction between the butts and the concrete. With less personnel on scene we need to be on the look out for things that will make us more efficient and finding a way to butt your own ladder is just one of them.
The nice thing about these types of options is that they still allow the ladder to be moved in a hurry when needed. There would be nothing worse then to see a brother or sister in trouble at a window and to be delayed by untying the ladder. Anything that can get the ladder raised quicker or moved quicker is a good thing!
I think using your halligan or a tool at the butt when it is needed at the top of the ladder is dumb. I carry two tool to every scene but still…….
I think using your halligan or a tool at the butt when it is needed at the top of the ladder is dumb. I carry two toosl to every scene but still…….
i think using a halligan or a tool at the butt is a great idea especially if im the one sliding down the ladder in an emergency. Also what good is a tool at the top if your ladder is walking down the wall. He never said he wouldnt bring another one. I think its dumb that you couldnt figure that out…
Well in one pic the angle on the ladder is a bridge- proper angle uses the vertical weight of the ladder to dig in. 24′ ladder no more than 6-7 ” depending on the rule.
a bad angle your body weight pushes it out ward. A good correct steep angled ladder should stay put. I wonder why know one taught this for the last 100 years but stressed angle and butt spur placement.
If you cant figure out to use a crack or an object- you should not be on the job.
However this site is awesome and a blessing to all firefighters. The video is proactive and good quality.
Intentions behind this video are awesome also.
hope not to offend brothers – dont be thin skinned.
FYI…… you can’t do more with less. It’s mathematically, physically, physiologically, morally and politically impossible. Sounds good from a corporate management point of view to get more with less by employees, but nope….. not gonna happen.
Just keep in mind your climbing angle is imoprtant