How many feet should a firefighter allow for each story when determining the appropriate ladder length?

When determining the appropriate ladder length for firefighting, it is a common guideline to allow twelve feet for each story of a building. This measurement accounts for the height of an average story, including the additional height needed to effectively reach windows and other access points.

The twelve-foot guideline provides sufficient length to ensure that the ladder can safely extend above the roofline or window sills, which is crucial for both firefighter safety and accessing individuals in need of rescue. Adequate ladder length is essential for extending the reach and providing safe egress or ingress during emergency operations.

In contrast, the other options suggest varying heights that would not meet the necessary height requirements for effective ladder placement, especially in buildings with higher ceilings or additional architectural features. This makes twelve feet the most suitable and practical choice for firefighter operations when considering the average structure.