What is the maximum length of a straight or roof ladder that can be carried safely by one firefighter?

The maximum length of a straight or roof ladder that can be safely carried by one firefighter is typically around 18 feet. This length is recommended for safe handling to ensure that firefighters remain agile, maintain control of the ladder, and mitigate the risk of injury while transporting the equipment. Given that ladders longer than this might be cumbersome and unwieldy for a single individual, 18 feet strikes a balance between usability and safety, allowing firefighters to maneuver effectively, especially in emergency situations. Carrying longer ladders would require additional personnel to ensure safe transport and maneuverability, which is not practical in all scenarios.