When inspecting extension ladders, what is important to check?

When inspecting extension ladders, ensuring that the fly sections move freely is crucial for safe and effective use. The fly sections of the ladder are designed to extend and retract smoothly. If they are not functioning properly, it could lead to difficulties in operation, potentially jeopardizing the safety of the firefighter using the ladder. A ladder that does not extend correctly can lead to situations where it cannot reach the required height or could collapse unexpectedly. Therefore, checking for smooth movement of the fly sections is essential to guarantee the ladder's operational integrity and safety in emergency situations.