Law Enforcement, Fire Service, and EMS Explorers

The organization and history of “Exploring” is described. It has a lot in common with initiatives involving “community policing.” The establishment of modern-day Law Enforcement, Fire Service, and EMS Career Explorer Posts exemplifies this basic concept. Explorer units involve youth who are usually between the ages of 14 and 21 years. All units must have agency sponsorship and guidance. Law Enforcement Explorers usually receive extensive training in personal conduct, first aid, police procedures, weapons familiarization, crime scene investigation, and a wide range of other specialized police duties. Fire Service Explorers participate in drills and training in firefighting techniques, e.g., setting up and use of fire hoses, ladders, breathing apparatus use, and other firefighting equipment, as well as learning pre-fire planning and fire prevention. In addition to career development training, Cadet and junior firefighter programs allow minors (youth ages 14–18) to learn about volunteer firefighting, train with experienced firefighters, and, in some places, assist at fire scenes. Explorer Program activities provide specific leadership experiences, life skills training, and character education. Explorer Program participants 18–20 years of age are subject to a background investigation conducted by Learning for Life. The chapter includes several brief profiles of Explorer Posts, their police sponsors, and their communities. It also includes various references to the Learning for Life (LFL) Exploring Resource Guide.