Tonka Firefighter (Windows)

A fire has broken out at an old abandoned warehouse. Kittens are trapped in a sinking cruise ship. And hot lava from a nearby volcano is causing a series of forest fires. Kids tackle these and other firefighter-type assignments when they team up with Tonka Joe in TONKA FIREFIGHTER.

Kids join Tonka Joe at the fire station where he offers them four different vehicles to drive on rescue missions. Each vehicle has two kinds of missions, and each mission is playable at three levels of difficulty. While driving the fire dozer, kids plow down dead trees to create a firebreak to keep the fire from spreading. With the ladder truck, kids practice rescuing volunteer firefighters from a multistory building.

The driving takes a little practice, because youngsters have to steer with the computer's mouse. In addition to the missions, kids can plan and execute a spectacular virtual fireworks show. The software also offers lots of printables. There are coloring pages and safety signs, including the "Stop, Drop, and Roll" reminder.

While this software is not highly educational, it's great fun. It's perfect for kids who are mesmerized by fire trucks. What's not to like about becoming a hero while driving four fire rescue vehicles and tooting their horns?