What should firefighters be cautious about when using folding stairs?

When using folding stairs, it's essential for firefighters to be aware that springs may lose tension when heated. Folding stairs often use springs as part of their mechanism to facilitate extension and retraction. In a fire environment, the increased heat can cause these springs to weaken or even fail. This loss of tension can compromise the structural integrity and stability of the stairs, potentially leading to dangerous situations such as the stairs collapsing or becoming difficult to operate.

Understanding this risk is crucial for ensuring safety during firefighting operations and when accessing elevated areas. In contrast, while instability, the potential for ignition, or adjustability might present issues, the specific concern regarding the springs losing tension is particularly relevant in the context of operational safety under heat exposure.