Handling the Flame: An Anthology of Human Behavior and Fire-Related Emergencies provides students with a curated selection of readings that highlight various topics related to behavioral health in emergent situations. The anthology offers readers critical insight regarding human behavior and the variety of ways in which individuals respond to fire-related emergencies.

Unit I provides readers with an overview of human behavior as it transitions to an all-needs approach to emergency response. The readings define panic and dispel myths related to the nature and condition of panic. Unit II explains the manifestations of human behavior in emergent situations, with readings that examine human behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic and the role of media coverage and trust in public health agencies in H1N1 influenza prevention. In Unit III, the selections discuss behavioral health in emergency situations; sociology and social health in firefighting behavior; the sociology of panic; conformity behavior during a fire disaster; and wellness and the promotion of population health before and after an incident.

Handling the Flame covers relevant mental health issues encountered in society today and within emergency service organizations. It well prepares first responders to practically and healthily cope with emotional and mental distress they may experience on the job. The text is ideal for future fire fighters, emergency personnel, paramedics, and first responders.