Basic Firefighter Written Practice Exam

At what angle should ladders be positioned in relation to the building?

1. 60 degrees

2. 75 degrees

3. 90 degrees

4. 45 degrees

The correct answer is: 75 degrees

The correct positioning angle for ladders in relation to a building is approximately 75 degrees. This angle is optimal for several reasons. Firstly, it provides stability, ensuring that the ladder won’t slide out or tip over when weight is applied. At 75 degrees, the base of the ladder is positioned far enough away from the building to create a solid foundation while still allowing for easy access to the structure. Additionally, this angle facilitates safe ascent and descent for firefighters, as it is neither too steep—which would make climbing difficult—nor too shallow, which could create a risk of the ladder collapsing. The 75-degree angle is often referenced in training and guidelines, making it a widely accepted standard in the firefighting community. Choosing any other angle, such as 60 degrees, would compromise stability, while 90 degrees would be impractical as it would not allow for proper placement at the base. A 45-degree angle, while stable, would be too shallow for effective use, leading to potential hazards during emergency operations.