Throw ‘Em Up Thursday: 7/3/25 “Ladders for Who?
“LADDERS FOR WHO?”
For me, laddering is a must. I’d say it’s one of the biggest “lost arts” of the fire ground. More and more people are making excuses on why we aren’t throwing ladders. It’s not hard! On many of our truck companies in the city, ladders fall on the Truck Chauffeur and #4 firefighter, the OV, on instances when we have the staffing. But the question is often asked, why are we throwing ladders? Well…
1. Gain access to the fire building
2. Provide additional means of egress during operations
3. Removing trapped occupants
4. Line advancement when stairs are not accessible or limited
5. Filling in burned out stairs
6. Roof access
With all these potential needs for ladders, where do we throw our first ladder(s)? I think the obvious answer of known and expected victims should be a priority. This means bedroom windows, which means you have to understand building construction. The size and shapes of these windows tell us the areas we expect to be bedrooms. Glazed glass, smaller openings, and such often mean bathrooms or could just be open areas in like a loft or mezzanine. Another critical point we hit is the Charlie side. Often times a 360 is missed or things have changed from the initial walk around. Generally, our driver is running ladders to the Charlie side (probably a 24’ or 28’) along with a hook and a bar. Remember “Body to the Building”. This will put the firefighter in an excellent position to affect a rescue, avoid falling debris, children that are dropped or jump, and monitor changes in conditions. Once on Charlie, the ladder is throw to the best option for rescue or egress. When we place a ladder against the building, we want to remember to place the tips just below the windowsill. We want the ladder to be at a minimum angle of 75 degrees, however taking one additional step back with the butt will give a better angle for firefighters and victims needing the ladder for egress. From here, additional assignments like forcing rear doors, taking a window for ventilation, and controlling utilities should be in the front of your mind. Lastly, give that Chief/IC a C.A.N. Report!
