If a building is less than how many stories tall, engine companies should park closest to the building while aerials park outside?

Parking protocols for fire apparatus are crucial for ensuring safety and efficient operations at the scene of an incident. When dealing with buildings that are five stories tall or fewer, engine companies are positioned closest to the structure. This allows for quicker access to the building for firefighters, facilitating rapid deployment of personnel and equipment to combat the fire.

On buildings taller than five stories, aerial apparatus are required because they need greater reach to effectively operate above the ground level. These aerials are typically parked further away from the building due to the risk of obstructions and the need for stabilization, which is harder to manage in confined spaces near taller structures.

Therefore, when the structure is five stories or less, the operational strategy favors positioning engine companies nearest to the building, which supports effective firefighting tactics.