Have you ever awakened to blaring sirens, passed a fire station and paused to look inside, wondered how the trucks, ladders, and hoses work, what happens after a fire is extinguished, or how a person becomes a firefighter? From colonial bucket brigades to the modern technology that allows firefighters to respond to emergencies in seconds, the challenging task of fighting fires is one of the most vital jobs in our communities. This in depth look takes readers behind the fire station doors, beyond the fire line, and into the day-to-day lives of the highly skilled men and women who risk their lives to save people and protect property from the ravages of the nearly 2 million fires that occur in the United States each year. The engaging text and clear color photographs of Firefighting create a detailed and realistic portrayal of this important, dangerous, and rewarding career. Read Less