Alphabet Factory: Firetrucks To the Rescue; So, You Want to be a Firefighter?

A steady entry on children's lists of "what I want to be when I grow up," firefighters are in the unusual position of being public service employees who aren't regularly badmouthed by the general populace (unlike school administrators, civil servants, and the supreme objects of our disdain: politicians). Two new videos for kids showcase the firefighting life, emphasizing different aspects. Alphabet Factory: Firetrucks to the Rescue stars Garth, Susan, and dog puppet Newton, who look at the two main types of fire trucks (pumper trucks and ladder trucks) and the equipment found on each. In addition, the program offers still photographs of firetrucks new and old (Susan explains that in older days horses pulled the fire carriages, and for some time after the advent of fire trucks with engines, horses--in new jobs hauling ice cream carts or serving as taxis--would take off at the sound of fire alarm bells). The team watches firefighters at firefighting school, where Garth points out safety tips to remember in the event of a fire (stay low, have an escape plan, etc.), and the program concludes with a list of suggested books to read. a good introduction that kids will enjoy."So, You Want to be a Firefighter?" is hosted by retired fire chief Richard Riesenberg, who takes his grandson Kyle down to the fire station for a tour. Here, a female firefighter named Mary shows Kyle the special clothes that firefighters wear, and takes him for a ride in the fire truck. Riesenberg and Kyle then attend several firefighting drills in which firefighters put out house fires, open up wrecked cars using the tool known as the "jaws of life" (which works like a giant pair of tin cutters), tackle a fuel fire at an airport, and engage in competitive team drills. The program concludes with examples of other duties of a firefighter (such as cleaning and maintaining fireplugs, and inspecting local businesses and schools). Although the program makes a reference to "our state" (Kentucky), this low-budget but well-done production is applicable anywhere. Although there is obviously overlapping material, Alphabet Factory: Firetrucks to the Rescue underscores fire safety and offers a close look at fire trucks, while "So, You Want to be a Firefighter?" pays more attention to the actual clothing and duties of a firefighter, and contains more footage of firefighters in action. Both titles are recommended. (R. Pitman)