How can fire fighter families cope with the emotional toll of loving a first responder? There are ceaseless worries--about the physical dangers of the profession, the cumulative stress, and the long hours spent away from home. In this compassionate and knowledgeable guide--now fully revised and updated--psychologist Ellen Kirschman shares sage advice and practical strategies for when times get tough. From dealing with occupational hazards like trauma, marital tension, and substance use problems, to the psychological effects of fighting wildland fires, Dr. Kirschman understands the unique challenges of life on the front lines. With candor and wisdom, she shows fire fighters and their loved ones how to navigate the highs and lows of “the best job in the world.”

"This second edition of I Love a Fire Fighter is, like the first, intended to raise awareness of the psychological consequences of being a fire service family. It is my objective to describe the subtle and obvious ways the demands of this unique occupation spill over to home and to suggest strategies that you-as a parent, a child, a sibling, a spouse, a friend, or a significant other-can use to manage the spillover and/or learn to live with it"--

He’s an injured firefighter. She bakes the most delightful treats. When their worlds collide will the baker help heal the firefighter with a mix of blueberry muffins and her caring way? The elegant baker, Hannah Bell, has always lived on Bluestar Island with her family. While still grieving for her father, who died in a fire, she focuses all of her energy on making her dream come true—opening her very own bakery. But when a broken water pipe washes away her carefully laid plans, she’s on the verge of losing everything. New York firefighter Ethan Walker’s life is in a tailspin after he’s injured on-the-job. When an urgent call detours him to Bluestar Island, he agrees to help his lovable but meddlesome great-aunt. But organizing the island’s Spring Fling proves a lot harder than he originally imagined. He needs help…and fast. Under the magic of Bluestar Island’s sea breeze and warm sunshine, Hannah and Ethan must not only face their immediate obstacles but also their own turning points in life. Will they have to do that alone? With a leap of faith and a dash of romance, they might just find the perfect mix to make their dreams come true. Includes a delicious recipe for The Elegant Baker’s Blueberry Crumble Muffin! Bluestar Island series: Book 1 – Love Blooms (Hannah & Ethan) Book 2 – coming soon

In Challenges of the Firefighter Marriage, author Anne Gagliano, the widely read Fire Engineering and FireLife.com columnist, has teamed up with her husband, Captain Mike Gagliano, to share their 30-plus years of personal experience on how marriage can thrive in the chaotic world of firefighting. In addition, they have called upon well-known and respected couples who share their stories of comfort and guidance for firefighter families everywhere. What you will learn: Aspects of this occupation that differentiate it from any other and how these impact marriage Essential conversations every firefighter couple should have The reality of sleep disruption and how to minimize its impact The importance of healthy intimacy in your relationship Why finances can be such a problem and ways to make it a solution Advice on how to deal with time off, kids, firefighter health, and so much more