What is a common characteristic of a snorkel?

A common characteristic of a snorkel is that it can extend both vertically and horizontally. This unique capability allows for versatile operations in firefighting, particularly in situations where accessing elevated areas is necessary. The horizontal range is especially useful for reaching over obstructions, which provides firefighters with the ability to maneuver quickly and efficiently during incidents such as structure fires where access is limited.

This feature distinguishes snorkels from traditional aerial ladders, which primarily extend vertically. By combining both vertical and horizontal reach, snorkels enhance the flexibility of firefighting efforts, enabling better access to various levels of buildings and other structures.