Ladders placed to the roof should be extended how many rungs above the roof edge?

When placing ladders to the roof, it is crucial to extend the ladder sufficiently beyond the edge to ensure the safety of firefighters when climbing onto and off of the roof. Extending the ladder three to five rungs above the roof edge provides several essential safety benefits.

First, this height allows firefighters to have a secure grip and stable footing when transferring from the ladder to the roof. This additional length helps to prevent slips or falls, which can occur if the ladder ends too close to the edge. Moreover, having that extra rung allows for better visibility and a clearer line of sight when climbing, especially in smoke or low visibility conditions.

Extending more than just enough for a grip is important for overall stability and safety as it allows for a smoother transition. The longer extension also makes it easier for firefighters to position themselves in a stable, safe manner on the roof, rather than risking balance issues while trying to navigate the ladder. Thus, extending the ladder three to five rungs above the roof edge is the recommended practice to enhance safety and facilitate a more controlled ascent and descent.