What does the term "ladder truck" refer to?

The term "ladder truck" specifically refers to a fire truck that is equipped with an extending ladder. This type of truck is commonly used to access high places, such as the upper floors of buildings during firefighting operations or rescue situations. The ladder can be telescoping or articulating and is essential for reaching elevated locations that are otherwise inaccessible by standard equipment.

In firefighting, having the capability to deploy a ladder allows firefighters to effectively combat fires from above and perform rescue operations. This feature distinguishes ladder trucks from other types of fire apparatus that may carry different equipment, such as rescue tools or hazardous materials response gear, but do not have the elevating capability that a ladder truck provides.