What do guides on a ladder do?

Guides on a ladder play a crucial role in stabilizing and directing the movement of the fly section, which is the extension part of a ladder. This function is essential, particularly in aerial applications where maintaining stability and control as the ladder extends or retracts is important for the safety of the personnel using it. The guides ensure that the fly section moves smoothly and securely, preventing any lateral movement that could compromise the structure's integrity during operation. This ensures a safer climbing and working environment for firefighters and other rescue personnel who rely on the ladder's steadiness while performing their duties.

Other roles listed, such as providing support for the ladder structure or enhancing ladder height, are not the primary functions of the guides.