re: I found this interesting: Firetruck Ladders

Bill,
I don’t have any experience using wood ladders on the fireground, my departments been using aluminum since before I was hired.
Weight is a big issue for me. We used to count on having 3 firefighters to raise a 35’ ladder. With reduced staffing it will more likely be a 2 person operation. Raising a ladder isn’t too tough in training or at home. Doing it with a bottle on your back in the dark at 2 am is more difficult.

BJ