Firefighters

Children's Literature - Marilyn Courtot

In a clear and straightforward text young readers learn about the role of fire fighters. An alarm is sounded and the fire fighters respond without wasting a second. The equipment, fire fighting techniques and responsibilities on and off the fire scene are described in the text and depicted in illustrations that add a bit of humor. The closing pages describe the duties of a variety of fire fighters and contain a list of safety tips for kids. Part of the "In My Neighborhood" series. 1999 (orig.

Children's Literature - Eileen Hanning

When there's a fire, what happens after someone calls 911? From leaving the fire station to entering a burning building, putting out the fire, and rescuing people, this picture book will give young readers an inside look at what fire fighters do. Also included are a glimpse at volunteer fire fighters, fire boats, and forest fires. LaFave's watercolor and ink illustrations depict both men and women fire fighters at work. The last six pages of the book are devoted to fire prevention and safety. A few of the illustrations in this section are a bit confusing. Pictures for some fire prevention tips show the behavior to be avoided even though the text is phrased positively. For example, the picture for "keep the space under stairs clear" shows boxes and cans of paint stored under stairs. With that small exception, this picture book does a fine job introducing fire fighting, prevention, and safety to young readers and would be useful for parents and teachers focusing on fire safety. Other books in the "In My Neighborhood" series explore the important work done by police officers, garbage collectors, and postal workers. 1998 (orig.

School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 3A simple text and appealing watercolor illustrations make fire fighters real and interesting to young readers. Bourgeois describes a fire at an apartment building from the first signs of smoke to the mop-up job at the end. She also discusses life in the fire station and how fires are fought in forests, in the countryside, and on water. There is no glossary but the vocabulary is easily understood through the context and the pictures. Clearly stated safety tips make the book valuable for fire-safety units. Although many titles about this topic are available, the lively writing and appealing illustrations make this one a worthwhile addition.Stephani Hutchinson, Pioneer Elementary School, Sunnyside, WA