If the horizontal distance is much less that one-fourth of the incline length of the ladder, it is pitched to steep for safe work. Store your ladders in dry, well-ventilated locations where they are not exposed to the weather or excessive heat or dampness. When stored horizontally, support both ends and at in-between points to keep the middle from sagging, and maybe loosening the rungs or cleats and warping the rails. Treat wood ladders periodically with a clear preservative such as clear varnish, white shellac or linseed oil. Never paint a ladder because it hides defects and deterioration.
Ladders are necessary and useful tools.
Be sure to use yours safely and take care of them when not in use so that they remain useful and SAFE tools.