What is the term for keeping a ladder from slipping by applying one's weight to the underside of it?

The term for keeping a ladder from slipping by applying weight to the underside of it is known as heeling. Heeling refers specifically to the action of using a firefighter’s weight or additional equipment to stabilizing the butt of a ladder, ensuring it remains firmly in place during operations. This practice is crucial in maintaining safety while the ladder is in use, especially when firefighters are ascending, descending, or operating tools from the ladder.

Stabilizing and bracing might sound similar but generally refer more to securing the ladder in a broader context, which includes the use of other supportive measures or equipment to prevent movement. Securing often implies fastening or tying down, which does not capture the specific action of adding weight to the ladder's base that heeling describes. Understanding the term heeling is essential for safety during ladder operations in firefighting.