Fire Explorers – Post 788
Gresham Fire and Emergency Services Explorer Post 788 provide an opportunity for motivated young men and women to develop leadership, teamwork and responsibility skills while exploring the firefighting profession.
Explorers are required to complete basic firefighting training. Once qualified, Explorers are allowed to respond to emergency calls in support roles, performing non-emergency tasks according to their specific training.
Explorers have gone on to fire service positions in Gresham and in other cities. Many former Explorers are currently career firefighters or respond with volunteer fire agencies.
Due to the amount of training required the program takes new members only once a year, usually in December or January. Applications are accepted year round either at the Fire administration office at Gresham City Hall or through an online application.
Qualifications
Explorer applicants must:
- Be age 15 to 20
- Have and maintain a grade point average of 2.5
Once accepted into the program recruits must complete basic firefighter training as prescribed by the State of Oregon Fire Standards and Accreditation Board. This training includes:
- Orientation
- Safety
- Fire behavior
- Portable fire extinguishers
- Ropes and knots
- Hose connections and nozzles
- Tools and equipment
- Ladder evolutions and practices
- Forcible entry
- Fire streams
- Hose evolutions and practices
- Salvage and overhaul
- Fire suppression techniques
- Ventilation
Explorers also receive training in hazardous materials awareness.
In addition, Explorers must have or earn certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and basic first aid.
Explorer recruits successfully completing these requirements will receive their Explorer badge and a Certificate of Completion from the Fire Department.
Cost
Explorers will incur some costs related to their training. These costs may include:
- Uniform accessories
- Textbook and training materials
- Insurance and registration fees
- Explorer Post dues
Call 503-618-2355 for more information on becoming an Explorer or to obtain an application.