Before lowering the aerial device, what should be done with personnel?

The primary concern when operating an aerial fire apparatus is the safety of personnel. Before lowering the aerial device, it is crucial to remove personnel from the aerial. This ensures that no one is at risk of falling or being injured during the maneuver. The aerial device's lowering process can involve sudden movements or changes in stability, which can potentially expose anyone on the device to danger. By removing personnel beforehand, you minimize the risk of injury and ensure they are safely on the ground before the aerial is retracted, allowing for a controlled and safer operation.

In this context, the other options, while they may touch upon safety, do not effectively address the paramount need for personnel to be removed from the aerial to mitigate risks associated with the lowering procedure. Ensuring personnel are secure or leaving them in position may imply they are still exposed during the lower, which could lead to accidents. Calling for additional support does not directly relate to the immediate safety of personnel on the aerial either and may delay necessary actions in an emergency situation.