Which of the following is NOT a component of an aerial ladder?

The correct response identifies that a control panel is not a component of an aerial ladder. Aerial ladders are primarily mechanical devices used in firefighting and rescue operations, and they consist of structural elements that facilitate their function.

The rungs provide steps for firefighters to climb the ladder safely. The base rail serves as a foundational component that supports the ladder's structure and helps ensure stability during operations. Handrails are installed for safety and support, allowing firefighters to maintain balance while ascending or descending the ladder.

In contrast, a control panel, while it may be present in other firefighting equipment or machinery, is not a fundamental structural part of an aerial ladder itself. The absence of this component in an aerial ladder highlights that ladders function mechanically without the need for electronic controls, focusing instead on physical support and safety features.