What happens to the stability of a ladder if the butt is placed too close to a building?

When the butt of a ladder is placed too close to a building, its stability is reduced. This is primarily due to the angle at which the ladder is positioned against the wall. A proper angle allows for a safer and more stable setup, optimizing the distribution of weight and forces acting on the ladder.

When the butt of the ladder is too close to the building, it results in a steeper angle that heightens the risk of the ladder slipping or tipping over. This angle compromises the ladder's ability to support the weight of a firefighter or equipment safely. A properly placed ladder should typically have a base-to-height ratio of about 1:4, meaning for every four feet of height, the base should be one foot away from the building. Deviating from this guideline can create an unstable situation, leading to potential accidents.

Maintaining the appropriate distance from the structure ensures that the ladder has a solid footing and reduces the likelihood of slipping at the base while also providing a safer ascent and descent for the firefighter.