What must be done to ariel ladders before moving a ladder truck for highway travel?

Before moving an aerial ladder truck for highway travel, it is essential that the aerial ladders are secured in the lower traveling position. This is crucial for safety and stability during movement. When the ladders are in a secured state, they are less likely to shift or cause instability, which could lead to accidents or incidents while the truck is in transit.

Securing the ladders also protects them from potential damage while on the road. Aerial ladders are designed to extend and maneuver for firefighting and rescue operations, but when the truck is moving, those components need to be properly positioned and locked to ensure they do not pose a hazard to other vehicles or to the ladder truck itself.

While options such as detaching the ladders, cleaning and checking for functionality, or having them inspected are important aspects of maintenance and operation, they do not address the immediate need for safety and compliance when the truck is being transported. Therefore, securing the aerial ladders in the lower traveling position is the most critical step before highway travel.