Explorer Program
The Vista Fire Department Fire
Exploring Program is an official department function. It is the intent of the
department, in conjunction with the Boy Scouts of America (Learning for Life
program), to offer young adults real life experiences, training and exposure to
the career opportunities available in the fire service.
Candidates for the position of Fire Explorer are both young men and women who are 15 through 20 years of age. Preference will be given to City of Vista/Vista Fire Protection District residents and may comply with the following conditions:
- Be free of any physical handicaps that would cause injury to themselves of jeopardize other participants in the program.
- Have no negative contact with any Law Enforcement Agency or school official.
- Must maintain "fire safe" grooming standards.
- While attending high school, the Explorer must maintain an over grade point average of at least 2.5 (C).
Below is general information regarding the application process for the Explorer Post.
Applications are made available on the web site in mid-September and are to be turned in during a two week time period, usually by the first week of October. This years (2011) applications were due October 17 either by handing it in to Fire Administration at 200 Civic Center Drive at 5 p.m. or or via e-mail by midnight.
All candidates are required to follow the selection procedures below:
- Submit an application with a resume and a one page essay on why you want to be a "Fire Explorer".
- An oral interview/appraisal board will be scheduled with candidates in November or December.
- A background check will be done.
Training and Activities:
Training takes place twice
monthly on Saturdays from 0800 to 1400 hours. Explorers are issued firefighting
gear and once trained are allowed to ride along as part of an engine company,
truck company or a medic unit. The new explorers must complete 6 months of
training prior to doing ride alongs. Also, Explorers are restricted to
Non-firefighting operations but can help in support functions at all incidents
under direction of the company Captain.