What is the correct description of an aerial apparatus's center of gravity?

An aerial apparatus's center of gravity is described as high due to its design and structure. These vehicles typically have extendable ladders or platforms that can reach significant heights, which elevates the overall center of gravity. This high center of gravity can affect the stability of the apparatus, especially when it is extended and working in elevated positions, creating a greater risk of tipping. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for fire apparatus drivers/operators as it informs their operational practices, particularly when positioning the apparatus and deploying it for aerial operations.

In contrast, while some vehicles might have a low or medium center of gravity, aerial devices inherently have stability challenges associated with their height, necessitating specific caution during use. A variable center of gravity might imply that it changes based on the load or configuration, but in the case of aerial apparatus, the design consistently tends toward a higher center of gravity due to their operational capabilities.