ladder truck

Also known as: hook and ladder truck

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

A ladder truck, also known as a hook and ladder truck, is a piece of mobile fire apparatus that carries ladders and other firefighting and rescue equipment. These trucks are equipped with mechanically operated, extensible ladders that can be rapidly extended, often up to 150 feet. The main ladder is mounted on the truck's body and raised using a hydraulic pump. Some ladder trucks also carry ladders to be used from the ground, totaling over 200 feet.1234

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fire engine
The ladder truck (hook and ladder) mounts a ladder that may be capable of rapid extension to 150 feet, often with a large-capacity nozzle built into the top section. The older type of overlength ladder truck is equipped with steerable rear wheels for negotiating city streets.…
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The ladder truck (hook and ladder) mounts a ladder that may be capable of rapid extension to 150 feet, often with a large-capacity nozzle built into the top section. The older type of overlength ladder truck is equipped with steerable rear wheels for negotiating city streets.…
Read More