By Bill Adkins

Your department has decided to purchase a ladder truck for the rural community you protect and serve. With so many options out there, you must determine what best suits your community. First, I want to be clear that I’m not for or against any manufacturers. In my personal opinion, apparatus manufacturers are like Ford vs. Chevy vs. Dodge—to each their own. What I’m referring to is do you want a Tower ladder or quint, mid- or rear-mount? The apparatus committee must look at the dynamics of its area and surrounding areas to make a determination on what piece of apparatus will work best. This article will be based off of my own experience and knowledge of the majority of the rural communities I have encountered.

Tower Ladder or Quint?

If you live in or near rural communities, you know that some roads and/or driveways can be quite narrow, winding, overgrown with vegetation, and otherwise inconvenient for larger vehicles. Think of your typical driveway in rural communities. There is a mailbox, electric pole, or tree in close proximity; turning into a driveway with a tower ladder can be done but will most likely be challenging. With this in mind, I must lean toward a quint in most rural areas.

Tower ladders will have a bucket either on the rear or in front (depending on rear- or mid-mount) that tends to swing wide and if you have a tight area the operator will have a harder time making their approach. Consider using ground guides when in tight areas. One major advantage the tower ladder has over the quint would be that your firefighters are not required to climb the ladder. If you have firefighters that are not fond of heights, then maybe this is the route to take.

Quints are smaller and for the most part have a better turning radius. A quint with a short wheelbase makes turning into these tight driveways easier. Most quints will have the same wheelbase as the typical engine. Without the bucket there is less hanging off the front or back to worry about.