Fire (Scholastic Reference)

Presents the work done by fire fighters, including the equipment they use, the fires they fight, the rescues and investigations they perform, and the history and future of fire fighting

Grade 3-6?Readers will feel the heroism, bravery, and thrill of being a firefighter when they delve into Masoff's informative and action-packed presentation. Spectacular full-color photos accompany a text that tells how fires start, how they burn, how firefighters get to the fire, and what equipment they use. Jargon such as flashover, flashpoint, and backdraft is clearly defined. This book expresses well the point that being a firefighter involves much more than putting out fires. Readers will see that firefighters respond to numerous calls for help such as a child trapped in a cave, a car accident, a hazardous materials spill, and many others incidents. An interview section brings out a discussion of a firefighter's worst fears, how hot fires are, and the various tests of strength required to do the job, such as being able to drag an 80-pound hose. Masoff also provides a historical look at firefighting in colonial Jamestown and includes other bits of history such as the invention of alarm boxes and the introduction of the dalmation as mascot. Safety tips for fire prevention are included as is a "find out more" section that includes magazines, films, addresses of organizations, and a Web site. If you have budding firefighters in your midst, this is a must buy.?Katherine Borchert, Arlington Central Library, VA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.