This type of fire engine combines pumping capabilities with a heavy wheeled ladder mounted on the rear. The ladder, known as an escape, is designed to be slipped off the back of the appliance and wheeled into position by the crew for rescues from upper floors. While mostly replaced by aerial appliances and smaller extension ladders in active service, the design was a staple of British and Commonwealth fire brigades.
Heard on the job
We need to slip the escape and get it pitched to the third floor window before we run the hose reel.
Insider tip
Slipping the escape requires a coordinated effort from the crew, usually involving a specific set of commands to release the holding gear and lower the heavy ladder safely to the ground.
Do not mix it up with
- Aerial ladder: An aerial ladder is permanently mounted to the truck and operated mechanically, whereas an escape ladder is manually removed and wheeled into place.