What should be done to the ladder rack during operations?

The correct action to take regarding the ladder rack during operations is to ensure that it is operational and ready for deployment. This means turning the ladder rack on, which is essential for its hydraulic or electric systems to function properly. When the ladder rack is activated, this allows firefighters to efficiently deploy the ladder when needed, enhancing their ability to access heights safely and quickly.

In contrast, inspecting for damage is an important pre-operational check but does not specifically pertain to actions during operations. Releasing the safety latch is typically a procedural step that should be completed before turning the ladder rack on, rather than being an operational activity itself. Deploying stabilizers is also a critical step when setting up the vehicle for stability; however, it assumes that the ladder rack is already operational. Therefore, activating the ladder rack is the fundamental requisite that lays the groundwork for all subsequent actions.