r/Firefighting • u/BaptismByFire Western MA FF/Paramedic • 2d ago
General Discussion New ladder truck adjustment
What's up guys, my Dept. just got a new mid-mount platform 100' ladder. I was trained on a 105' rear-mount platform ladder. I know there's gonna be a learning curve on the transition, but for the truckies out here, what differences on set-up can I look forward to?
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u/Iraqx2 1d ago
Pull up right against the curb, have another firefighter get out and stand by the curb. Turn the wheel to the stops away from the curb and slowly pull ahead. Have the other firefighter stop you as the truck starts to come out of the turn. Go back and see just how far your bucket and tailboard swings over the curb just so you know how far it will swing out when driving.
When you are turning left look in the right mirror to make sure you don't have a vehicle right beside you that the bucket or tailboard will swing into and vice versa.
To elaborate on what's already been said. When you pull up on scene try to have your tailboard at the curb and the bumper about 8' away from the curb. This will help swing the cab out of the way to increase scrub area without giving up to much reach.
If you want to use the platform for a ground level attack into a strip mall, large store front, loading dock, etc., set the truck up so it leans towards the structure. Even though you're not level, as long as you're in the green you will have full capabilities (of course check with the manufacturer) and it will allow you to get the platform lower for the attack.
Depending upon the brand you may only have one set of out and down outriggers which will be easier to get between obstacles such as parked cars instead of trying to do it with two sets of out and down outriggers.