What is the primary duty of the 1st Ladder on a building that is 3 stories or less?

The primary duty of the first ladder company on a building that is three stories or less is to conduct forcible entry, primary search, ventilation, and overhaul. This responsibility is critical to ensuring that the occupants are safely evacuated and that the fire is effectively controlled and mitigated.

When a ladder company arrives on the scene, their immediate tasks typically involve gaining access to the building if it is not already accessible (forcible entry). Following that, they focus on conducting a primary search for any trapped individuals, which is vital in minimizing loss of life and ensuring everyone is accounted for. Ventilation is another key task, as it helps to clear smoke and heat from the building, improving conditions for both trapped occupants and firefighters. After these crucial tasks, the ladder company participates in overhaul, which involves checking for hidden fire or potential flare-ups once the main body of the fire has been extinguished.

In this context, other duties such as redirecting a hose line for extension, managing incident safety officer responsibilities, or acting as support staff for the Chief are important but do not represent the primary focus of the first ladder company in a residential structure. Prioritizing the immediate safety and rescue operations remains paramount in such situations.