I began my career in firefighting in 1976, a time when breathing apparatus was only coming into regular use and definitely not mandatory use. Training in small city departments and the volunteers was still generally on-the-job. Education for firefighters, beyond high school, was not considered necessary. I leaned forward into the job with enthusiasm and I took chances. In time, through acquired experience, education, and training I leaned how to be a smart firefighter and still be aggressive. I believe that firefighters are the tip of sword and essential to the public fire protection system, but they could not do their job effectively without engineered hydrant systems, well designed buildings, top notch fire apparatus, and safety equipment. So be advised that I cover those aspects In this book with the intent to give credit where credit is due. Thus this book takes a broad view of public fire protection acknowledging the work of fire underwriters, planners, engineers, and architects. If you are looking for an adventure read about soot-covered firemen with black snot running from their noses there are many other great books that will fill that need better than this book. I encourage you to seek out and read those other authors and forget about this book. Update, June 2021. On the 10th anniversary of publication, I want to thank those who have read my book. I also want to thank Potomac Books for having faith in my ability to write a book and to The University of Nebraska Press for keeping it in publication all these years.
