NEED SOP'S FOR EXPLORER PROGRAM

[dragonslayer117]

I AM THE CAPTAIN OF A SMALL TOWN VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. AND WE ARE TRYING TO START AN EXPLORER PROGRAM.I NEED A COPY OF SOME SOP'S OUTLINING SOME OTHER DEPT'S. EXPLORER PROGRAMS.

[kiddo]

Hi,

I don't know if this will help you much, but maybe it will shed some light. I am the only Jr. FF in a small VFD in NC, and my dept. tried to implicate an Explorer program, but it didn't go through. Anyhow, in the Jr. prgm now, we are just allowed to attend meetings and training that the dept. scedules, but that isn't really getting me the experience that I need. What I would like to be able to do is to respond to the scene, be it by apparatus (only if there is an available seat) or by POV. I wouldn't be in the way...no actual hands-on with the tools or anything, just be able to see how things work on the fireground or incident. I am issued a set of full turnout gear, but I'm prohibited to wear it unless we have training, for liability, in case I am mistaken for a regular FF. I am also encouraged to attend the FFI&II classed given by the college, and I only need a few more before I can get my certification. I don't know if this has helped you any, but hopefully it has.

[KcAreaFF]

If you have a fax #, I can send you a copy of the SOP's our department's explorer post uses. Good luck, and don't give up--this is a great program for anyone interested in the service...It's helped a lot of people get a foot in the door, including myself.
Robert

[firecapt745]

Our fire dept. has a Jr. FF program, not an explorer program, but here are a few guidelines. The Jr. firefighters must be at least 16 Y.O.A., and the child of an active member. They are allowed to participate in all training except live burns, and are allowed to respond on all calls. They are limited in what they can do, however. They can help with hose, get tools (go-for), assist other firefighters with their gear, etc. They cannot enter a burning building, operate the pumper (although they can assist the engineer), or other activities deemed dangerous. They are issued turnouts, but they are clearly marked Jr. Firefighter. They are allowed to ride the trucks. The parent also has to sign a liability waiver for the child. I hope this info helps you in some way.