Ground ladders, sometimes referred to as portable ladders, are a fundamental component of fire apparatus, serving as essential tools for firefighting operations and rescue missions. How your department stores and accesses ground ladders can make the difference between operational efficiency and frustration on the fire ground. 

This blog explores how fire departments can enhance operations and firefighter safety by understanding the available ladder storage systems and selecting the right ladder rack configuration to meet their specific needs.

Ground Ladder Fundamentals

When engine companies arrive at an incident scene, ground ladders enable rapid deployment for window access, roof operations and emergency egress. Ground ladder versatility also complements aerial apparatus by providing firefighters with access to areas where larger apparatus might not be able to maneuver.

“Ground ladder deployment plays a key role in ensuring firefighters can establish multiple points of entry and exit during critical operations.” Dave McAlice, Regional Vice President, Northeast, Pierce Manufacturing

Standard Ladder Types and Configurations

The National Fire Protection Association establishes specific requirements for ground ladder complements based on apparatus classification:

• For standard pumpers, NFPA standards mandate a minimum of two ground ladders: one extension ladder ranging from 20-35 feet (with 24-foot models being the most prevalent) and one single-section roof ladder typically between 12-16 feet in length.
• Quint apparatus must carry a minimum of 85 feet of ground ladders in total. This requirement provides departments with flexibility to determine the optimal configuration and sizes based on operational needs and tactical considerations.
• Traditional ladder trucks without pumping capabilities are suggested to have a minimum of 115 feet of ground ladders. This substantial ladder complement enables ladder companies to address multiple access points simultaneously during complex incidents.

Ladder Materials and Their Advantages

Before exploring ladder rack configurations, it's essential to understand the ground ladders these systems are designed to store. The material composition of your department's ground ladders directly impacts deployment capabilities, durability and safety considerations.

• Aluminum Ladders represent the most popular choice in the fire service because of their lightweight construction and ease of deployment. These ladders provide excellent durability and can be stored externally with minimal deterioration from environmental exposure. Their primary limitation is electrical conductivity, which must be considered during operations near power lines.
• Wooden Ladders are heavier and may require more personnel to deploy, but they offer inherent non-conductive properties, which provide critical safety advantages during operations where electrical hazards may be present. These ladders can be more susceptible to damage and may require additional maintenance.  They should preferably be stored out of the elements to extend their lifespan. 
• Fiberglass Ladders combine electrical non-conductivity with excellent environmental durability. These ladders represent a modern alternative which addresses the limitations of both aluminum and wooden construction, though may be at a higher price point.

Ladder Rack Options and Configurations

Choosing the right ladder rack system for your department's needs can help to optimize storage, accessibility and overall efficiency. Fire departments have several options when it comes to ladder storage, each with its own benefits and considerations.

“Fire departments should evaluate how often they deploy ladders; their operational priorities and overall storage needs as they select a ladder rack system. The right choice ensures quick access when seconds count while balancing compartment space for other essential tools.” – Dave McAlice, Regional Vice President, Northeast, Pierce Manufacturing

External Ladder Racks

One of the most commonly used ladder storage configurations is the external ladder rack on the catwalk above the compartments. This setup keeps ladders exposed and readily available for fast deployment.

Benefits: Quick Deployment and Accessibility

• Ladders are stored externally, making them easy to grab and place into action when needed.
• Cost-effective design without additional mechanical components.
• Ideal for departments where ladder deployment speed and efficiency are a priority.

• Ladders are exposed to the elements, which can lead to dirt buildup, corrosion and wear over time.
• Extra maintenance may be required, including regular cleaning and lubrication, especially in regions with harsh winters or frequent road slush. Departments should inspect halyards regularly and replace cordage or cables if worn or frayed.  
• Reduces available compartment storage space.

Internal Ground Ladder Tunnels

For fire departments seeking a more enclosed storage solution, internal ground ladder tunnels provide a protected space for ladders within the apparatus body. The ladders slide into a built-in tunnel at the back of the truck, secured behind a closed-door.

Benefits: Weather Protection and Clean Storage

• Keeps ladders protected from environmental elements, reducing wear and extending their lifespan.
• Provides a clean and organized storage solution, which maintains the truck’s overall appearance.
  

• While protected, the ladders offload from the rear of the body, not from the side. The full length of the ladder, which can be 20 to 25 feet, is required behind the parked truck to remove and deploy them.  
• Requires space within the truck body, which may impact compartment, hose or water storage.

Hydraulic/Overhead Ladder Racks

For departments with a focus on maximizing compartment space, hydraulic or overhead ladder racks offer a practical solution. These systems use mechanical arms to lower and raise ladders from the top of the truck to street level. When not in use, the ladders are stored overhead, freeing up valuable compartment space.

Benefits: Maximized Compartment Space

• Keeps ladders stored overhead, allowing for increased storage space within the truck body.
• Ideal for departments which require additional compartmentation for tools and equipment.

Considerations: Deployment and Maintenance

• The system adds mechanical, hydraulic or electric powered support arms rather than traditional external or tunnel-mounted ladders, requiring periodic maintenance.
• Ladders take slightly longer to deploy due to the mechanical lowering process.
• May increase the overall height of the apparatus.

Enhanced Overhead Systems

Designed specifically for Canadian fire departments, the MaxiMetal Enhanced Overhead Ladder Rack provides a heavy-duty solution, which combines ladder storage with additional space for long handle tools and multiple 10’ suction hoses. This system is built for durability and offers enclosed storage options for extreme weather conditions.

Integration with Tool and Suction Hose Storage

• Offers additional storage options beyond ladders, integrating space for additional tools and suction hose needs.
• Helps departments organize equipment while maximizing available compartment space.

Regional Availability and Customization Options

• Exclusively available to Canadian customers through MaxiMetal.
• Customizable configurations to fit specific fire department needs.

Strategic Considerations

Beyond department needs, selecting a ladder rack must align with fire ground operations and responsibilities, including:

• Department Mission and Priorities: Understanding whether the truck is primarily for firefighting, rescue or multipurpose operations can influence ladder placement.
• Mutual Aid Responsibilities: Fire departments supporting neighboring departments should consider their role in regional responses and how truck capabilities fit into a larger strategy.
• Maintenance Capabilities: More complex storage systems, like power or hydraulic racks, may require additional upkeep, while external racks and ladders need regular cleaning in harsh weather conditions.

"A department responding to frequent structure fires in urban areas will have different needs than one primarily performing rescue operations. Evaluating your department’s priorities as you select a ladder rack ensures the right balance between fast deployment and efficient space management." – Dave McAlice, Regional Vice President, Northeast, Pierce Manufacturing

The best ladder storage system is the one which aligns with your department’s daily operations, mission and response demands. Whether prioritizing rapid deployment, maximizing storage or balancing both, the right choice will enhance efficiency and firefighter safety.

Pierce Manufacturing and its network of experienced dealers works closely with fire departments to determine the best ladder storage solution for the department’s needs, ensuring firefighters have reliable access to their ladders when it matters most.