The explorers learn basic firefighting skills, EMS skills, and leadership skills as well as getting a glimpse of what the fire service is actually like. Firefighting is often hard and uncomfortable work that exposes an individual to a high level of personal stress and danger. A firefighter must have a high sense of personal dedication and genuine desire to help others. The challenge of any fire de
partment is to recruit, promote and retain a high level of skilled and motivated men and women, who are devoted to the pursuit of maintaining the tradition and progressive excellence of the fire service profession. First, it is the intent of this program, in cooperation with the South Metro Fire Rescue Authority, Learning for Life Exploring and other host fire agencies, is to offer young men and women real life experiences, training, and exposure to the career opportunities in the fire service. Second, it provides a reliable and effective means for preparing and eventually recruiting the firefighters of tomorrow from our surrounding communities. Fire Exploring gives young people valuable insight into the fire service profession by offering hands-on career activities. This insight will help the individual to decide whether or not he or she desires to pursue a greater role in the fire service. The Parker Fire District launched its Explorers Program in June 2005 giving 15 young adults the opportunity to experience working in the Fire Service. The program came about as a result of interest in a fire explorers program by area youth and firefighters and will be continued by the Authority. Exploring is a young adult program sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America. It is designed for anyone 14 to 21 years of age. The Explorer Program provides the opportunity for explorers to build desirable character attributes, experience the responsibilities of active citizenship, develop mental sharpness, and physical fitness. Through the program, explorers get the opportunity to learn how to use most of the equipment used in fire fighting and learn about the demands of the career. Some of the things they learn are:
•SCBA, Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, how to wear it and use it
•How to use ropes and tie knots
•Hose management and water supply — getting water from the hydrant to the engine
•How to safely carry, place, and climb ladders
•Basic EMS training
•Live Fire Training
Ultimately, the explorers will get to ride along with a South Metro crew and see first hand how the job is done, however they will have many hours of training before they ride with a crew. For more information or to get involved, email Aaron Zimmerman
