American Sirens: The Incredible Story of the Black Men Who Became America's First Paramedics

Kevin Hazzard's book "American Sirens" tells the story of how a group of Black men in Pittsburgh became America's first paramedics, setting the gold standard for emergency medicine worldwide. Despite facing racism and opposition, they succeeded spectacularly and their legacy has been erased until now.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2023
Publisher: Hachette Books

In the past, if you faced a medical emergency, your chances of survival were slim. A 9-1-1 call might summon police or even the local funeral home. However, everything changed with the establishment of Freedom House EMS in Pittsburgh. This remarkable group of Black men became the first paramedics in America and set the global standard for emergency medicine. Unfortunately, their story and legacy were erased until now.

In his captivating book, American Sirens, acclaimed journalist and paramedic Kevin Hazzard unveils the compelling tale of how a group of young, under-educated Black men ventured into a new realm of healthcare. He delves into the lives of remarkable individuals such as John Moon, an orphan who discovered his passion for paramedicine; Peter Safar, the Nobel Prize-nominated physician who pioneered CPR and envisioned a trained ambulance service; and Nancy Caroline, the idealistic young doctor who transformed a scrappy team into an international leader. Throughout their journey, Freedom House encountered unwavering racism from the community, police, and government. Their job was demanding, the rules were often ambiguous, and their mission seemed insurmountable. Nevertheless, against all odds, they achieved extraordinary success.

This previously untold chapter in history sheds light on the Black origins of America's paramedics, a unique group of dedicated essential workers who stand ready to serve day and night, bridging the gap between life and death for every individual. Through their unwavering dedication and resilience, Freedom House paved the way for a new era of emergency medical care, leaving an indelible mark on the field.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 163 x 237 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780306926075