Written by an emergency responder, this book offers the education and insight needed by emergency responders to become aware of the tremendous impact that they have during even the most brief encounters with people going through significant emotional events. It offers tools for scene compassion without becoming "too wrapped up in someone else's emotions". The book discusses the nature of crisis response, the responsibility of emergency responders, and special considerations in dealing with children and the elderly as survivors. The subject of compassion fatigue and caring for oneself is also touched upon.