Saving Lives A Firefighter's Job

Beginning with the story of a dramatic rescue, the Introduction raises the question: What would induce someone to possibly lose his life to save another? It's the risk that all firefighters face when they come to work.
This is one of the questions we seek to answer, along with what is required to become a firefighter, mentally as well as physically. How do they deal with the challenges, which include health risks and a steady stream of tragedies?
Then there are the rewards: What is it like to bring someone back from apparent death? Saving Lives focuses on the demands and rewards of a job that is both physically and emotionally stressful.
The book looks at historic conflagrations and the improvements they have brought about, as well as how other countries handle the problem of fires. A chapter on prevention covers a topic which firefighters would like us to know more about: measures that might save a life.
Could you be a hero? Saving Lives concludes with what it takes to be one.

Nancy Brown Diggs speaks several languages and has a doctorate in East Asian Studies. Her previous books have all touched on different cultures; three deal with that of Japan. With Saving Lives she explores the universal challenges and rewards of being a firefighter.
JAMES J. ("JIMMY") TOWNSEND III is a graduate of Emory University and holds the rank of engineer at Georgia's top-rated Cobb County Fire Department. He has had the rewarding experience of saving many lives but has faced tragedies, as well. He is also Nancy Diggs' grandson.