Fire Explorers

Fire explorers learn firefighting skills including hose lay evolutions, ladder techniques, salvage operations, wildland fire fighting procedures, proper use of firefighting tools and equipment, breathing apparatus, basic first aid, patient vital sign assessment, and other related subjects. After explorers meet certain training requirements, they have the opportunity to apply skills they have learned through the department's Ride Along Program. During a ride along, an explorer can work side by side with fire fighters, respond to actual fires and emergencies, and get hands on "real world" experience.

Explorers can be promoted to Lieutenant and Captain. Each progressive rank requires more skills, knowledge, and dedication than the previous one, and thus is that much more rewarding. Parents will witness the positive outcome by having their youth enroll in this valuable program.

In addition to our regular training, each year, our Explorers participate in the Inland Empire Fire Explorer Association (IEFEA) Academy. The IEFEA Academy is held each year in the fall and focuses its training on a specific discipline within the fire service. Participants earn California State Certifications in the topic covered. Whether it is Auto Extrication, Haz-Mat, or Structural Fire Fighting, Explorers earn the same Certifications that are held by professional fire fighters. What a great head start for teens that are aiming for a fire service career!

Many of our Fire Explorers have gone on to successful fire service careers with fire departments throughout the nation, many of them right here in Big Bear.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining the post, please fill out the post 232 explorer application and return the completed application packet to Headquarters-Station 281, located at 41090 Big Bear Boulevard, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315. There is a $30 application fee, due at time of submittal. We will contact you with recruitment information during our next application phase. Our current application deadline is November 1, 2025.

Youths between the ages of 14 and 18 years old, who maintain a 2.5 grade point average, are eligible to participate.  Meetings will be held on the 2^nd and 4^th Wednesday of each month from 1900 to approximately 2100 hours.