When it came to stepladders, Consumer Reports said they are light, and good for jobs that aren't too high. Testers also assessed telescoping ladders that extend for higher jobs, along with multiuse ladders, which can work as both an extension and a stepladder.

Consumer Reports found the 22-foot to 26-foot multiuse ladders tested present serious risks for single-person use. Testers found the added height and weight made these ladders extremely difficult -- even unsafe for one person to set up in the extension mode.

Therefore, these seven multiuse ladders are judged “Not Acceptable” by Consumer Reports. They are the Cosco 20221, T1A. Little Giant aluminum ladders model M 22, Type 1 and 1-A and model M 26, Type 1-A, as well, the Little Giant fiberglass ladder model M 22, Type 1-A. Also making the list were the Werner ladders, models MT22 and MT 26.

Testers also found problems with six telescoping extension ladders.

"With a telescoping ladder each section nests in the section below it. And when you extend it, it's used as a full-length extension ladder," said Consumer Reports’ John Galeotafiore.

In tests, one telescoping ladder kicked out too easily on smooth surfaces, which means it could slide out from under you.

As a result, Consumer Reports has judged “Not Acceptable” the Xtend and Climb 770.

Testers also found five other telescoping ladders pose a serious hazard when you're closing them. The ladders are labeled with instructions for slowing their descent. However, Consumer Reports said it's all too easy to not follow them, allowing the sections to drop very fast. They said if hands or fingers are in the way, the user could be injured.

For this reason, Consumer Reports also judges “Not Acceptable” the Telesteps 1205 Type 1, 1-A and 2, as well as the Telesteps 1600, Type 1 and 1-A.

Consumer Reports said to reach high places, a better bet is a conventional Type 1A extension ladder.

Consumer Reports did find several ladders they recommended. They include a stepladder from Costco, model 2061 for $80, and the $100 multi-use Gorilla A-L 13 ladder.

For more helpful consumer information, visit Consumer Reports on the web. Just click on the link: Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports is a fee-based Web site. Many of the articles require a subscription.