What is an important consideration for using stay poles on a ladder?

When utilizing stay poles on a ladder, the primary purpose is to enhance the ladder's stability, particularly when it exceeds a certain height. Stay poles act to secure the ladder in a fixed position, minimizing the risk of it tipping or shifting under weight or due to environmental conditions like wind. This stability is essential for ensuring the safety of firefighters or personnel working at elevated heights, as a stable ladder provides a secure means of access and egress.

In this context, options focused on folding mechanisms, weight capacity, or height reduction do not address the core function of stay poles, which is to reinforce the ladder's stability while in use. By concentrating on stability and support, stay poles are pivotal in maintaining safety during operations that involve elevated work.