Which of the following practices helps ensure a safe aerial operation?

The practice of never extending or retracting the aerial device while responders are on it is crucial for ensuring safety during aerial operations. This principle helps to eliminate the risk of sudden movements that could destabilize the aerial device or cause injuries to personnel who are positioned on it. Maintaining a stable platform is essential for the safety of firefighters working at height, as any movement could lead to a loss of balance or control during critical operations.

In aerial firefighting and rescue scenarios, safety is paramount, and the operations must be conducted with careful consideration of the welfare of all personnel involved. Ensuring that the aerial device is fully extended or retracted before allowing responders to board or dismount further promotes a safe working environment and minimizes the potential for accidents. Refusing to compromise on this practice reinforces a culture of safety, which is essential in high-risk operations such as firefighting.

While the other practices mentioned may have their own merits, they do not provide the same level of direct safety assurances. Prioritizing speed over safety also contradicts the fundamental principles of safe operations, as does extending the aerial device quickly or while not checking for obstructions, which can introduce hazards that compromise the safety of the operation.