Which type of firefighting apparatus is equipped with an aerial ladder?

Ladder trucks are specifically designed to carry an aerial ladder or an elevating platform, which is crucial for reaching high places during firefighting operations, such as multi-story buildings. This type of apparatus allows firefighters to access rooftops, perform rescues from upper floors, and effectively combat fires in elevated areas. The integration of an aerial ladder provides significant advantages, including the ability to apply water from a height and to facilitate rapid evacuation of individuals in distress.

In contrast, fire engines primarily focus on carrying water and firefighting equipment but do not have an aerial ladder. Water tenders are designed to transport large quantities of water and support operations in areas without reliable water sources, while brush trucks are tailored for fighting wildfires in rugged terrain and are equipped to handle vegetation fires without the aerial capabilities of ladder trucks. Each type of apparatus serves a specific role in firefighting but ladder trucks are distinct for their aerial ladder functionality.