This reprint of the 1974 book is an engrossing report of an unusual firefighting unit working in the shadow of Harvard, written by a man who has a love-hate relationship with his job.

More philosophical than Dennis Smith in his best seller “Report from Engine Company 82,” Ferazani would agree with Smith that firefighting is the most misunderstood and underrated job in the country.

The Cambridge Rescue truck packs the usual fire gear but it is also stocked with sophisticated medical equipment. Besides answering fire alarms, it is called upon to assist victims of auto accidents, drug users, attempted suicides and to quell Harvard Yard riots. The squad has freed a pregnant woman from a stalled elevator and given advice on a sick cat.

Staffed by volunteers from the fire department, it takes dangerous and often repugnant tasks in its stride. Ferazani believes that such units set up on a national scale would be invaluable. While reporting his many exciting experiences he tells how the job affects his private life.

Rescue Squad is a clear, gripping account about a group of extraordinary men who save lives as fireman and minister to the injured as paramedics. It is at times funny, at times sad, but always interesting and beautifully told.