The hooks on roof ladders should operate freely and have ends that are what?

The ends of the hooks on roof ladders should be sharp. This design is intentional because sharp hooks are more effective at penetrating the surface of a roof, allowing for a secure and stable connection when the ladder is in use. A firm grip on the roof is crucial for safety, as it prevents the ladder from sliding or dislodging under the weight of the firefighter, especially when working from heights or on sloped surfaces.

Dull, rounded, or smooth ends would not provide the same level of stability and secure hold that sharp ends do. Dull ends would struggle to create a reliable grip, while rounded or smooth ends could easily slip off a roof surface, especially if it is sloped or wet. Therefore, sharp ends are essential for the effective and safe operation of roof ladders.