Thanks for the tactics question ~ like you, when entering the fire service we also were taught to NEVER rest the extended aerial as it was designed NOT to flex downward. Basically, the same theory is true for many aerial models. Because a previous question brought "Metz" aerials into the discussion, I should point out that due to its Euro-design roots, those ladder devices CAN and are rated to move personnel over WHILE resting on a building edge or window sill. The L32/Raptor is designed to support up to (12) persons; as this is a common practice overseas. For most all aerial apparatus built in North America...we will stick to an unsupported operation. (and remember to wear your harness)

Stay Safe ~ DMc

Well...never let it be said that I ducked a tough question, and I appreciate the inquiry. Let me put my "company" hat on for a few minutes: Yes, Metz Aerials is one part of the Rosenbauer Group, which is a global company (HQ'd in Austria). Metz was once an independent apparatus builder and is located in Germany; and was purchased by Rosenbauer in 1999. During this time, there was an independent group within our country called Metz-USA, and a select group of dealers handled one main model; called the L-32. Our current distribution system now uses ALL Rosenbauer America dealers; meaning that the local RBA dealer is now also a Metz dealer. There are now two Metz aerial models; the Raptor (modified L32) and the T-Rex articulating device and they are blended in with our complete line of traditional Rosenbauer ladders and platforms. In the event that your local RBA dealer might not have been involved in any recent demo there; it might be due to the fact that our "Tech-Drive" trucks were in your region for trade-shows and might have stopped in while on tour. I hope this info' is helpful ~ feel free to e-mail me directly if I can further assist.

Good question, Mick. The current NFPA-1901 manual (2003) offers suggested equipment to be carried on Aerial apparatus (Chapter-8) and Quint apparatus (Chapter-9). All ladder trucks are to include a minimum 115' of assorted ground ladders, then a variety of hand tools and other items...(check out #8.8.2, items # 1 thru 23 for their suggestions). As many of these items (i.e. Sledge Hammers, claw tools, extinguishers, etc.) are used by some Departments, but not others, it's important to do a full review of what you feel is needed by your own FD. It's also important that ANY piece of individual equipment should be described and requested IN YOUR specifications to ensure it will be supplied by any bidder...(some FD's believe by simply stating that their truck be "NFPA-1901" compliant, that it would include all this equipment, but that is not the case). In the event you do not have a copy of the NFPA manual, I'd be happy to e-mail you this list. Good Luck !

Thanks Joe, assuming that the Chief has done his homework, it's possible that this truck might be priced right and could be a reasonable investment. We typically suggest that ANY used device include an Aerial Certificate for safe operations. Other than that, certain aerial devices have certain advantages; the Snorkel device offers a nice "up-&-over" reach on a building. We usually see these devices in a more populated area, meaning that they might have limited use on low-rise buildings. ("side-reach"...or full horizontal "stretch" is not offered on this type of device) ~ however the Snorkel offers a wide sweeping master stream when needed. In any event, considering the device that is nearly 30-years old, some FD's feel that it might have served its best time, depending on cost and need of any service or repairs needed.

Good luck on your project.