How do you attach a ridge hook kit to an extension ladder?

[banjo67xxx]

I just bought a ridge hook kit to bolt on to a ladder so I can get up to the chimney safely, however I only have a 2-section and 3-section extenison ladder.

The latching mechanism on an extension ladder is clearly designed to stop the ladder shortening when weight is applied to the top, but when its hung from a ridge the weight will be trying to extend the ladder.

The videos and instructions I've seen are only for single section ladders.

Would I be correct in believing that:
1) you cannot prevent an extsnsion ladder from extending?
2) I need to bolt the ridge hook to the bottom section of the ladder?
3) I can rely on the bottom stop from preventing the top section from going below the bottom section, and so it should be safe to climb the ladder in its non-extended state treading on the upper section?

or do I need to seperate the sections of the ladder and use it as a single section ladder as that's all the instructions are written for?

 

[alan333]

Extend the ladder and tie the sections together at the rungs so they can't slide down. Not what the health & safety brigade would recommend but I've done it loads of times. Just make sure you tie them well with something substantial.

 

[catlad]

Catladders do not make it safe !!!!!!!!!!!!!! and home made catladders are something else just hire some.

 

[ree]

Is this for a single one-off DIY roof job? Or are you contemplating using it for professional purposes?

What do you propose doing at the chimney stack?

If one section of your 2-section ladder will reach, then bolt the hooks onto that length after splitting the two sections.

The access ladder or tower must be tied in at the eaves/fascia. A must.
The foot of the roof ladder can be then tied in to the projecting (36")above the gutter access ladder head.

 

[cajar]

You dismantle the ladder into 3 sections and make sure the kit fits properly to the bottom section on its own. If it's not long enough, buy a bigger ladder, what cost do you put on your life?