When raising a ladder, it should be kept a minimum of how many feet from power lines?

The correct answer is 10 feet, which is the recommended minimum distance to maintain when raising a ladder near power lines. This safety guideline is vital to prevent accidental contact with high-voltage power lines, which can cause serious electrocution hazards for firefighters and other personnel. Maintaining a distance of at least 10 feet helps ensure a safer working environment by providing a buffer zone that reduces the risk of electrical shock from inadvertent contact with overhead lines.

This distance is particularly crucial when maneuvering ladders, as the vertical height and angles of operation may inadvertently bring the ladder closer to the lines than anticipated. Understanding and adhering to this safety distance is essential for protecting both firefighter personnel and the public. A distance less than this could greatly increase the risk of accidents and dangerous situations in emergency operations.