Huntington Beach Fire Outreach Foundation
Supporting Fire Explorers
The Huntington Beach Fire Department Fire Explorer Program is a youth-based program that focuses on an introduction to the fire service and emergency medical services. This program puts an emphasis on education, training, career development, and positive mentoring. HBFD Explorers also gain leadership, character development, teamwork and life skills.
The Program is an official department function under the direction of the Fire Chief. Although Explorers are not considered for direct recruitment into the HBFD, there is unparalleled insight into HBFD operations and valuable experience which may help with future career pursuit. Young men and women will have an inside look into the fire service to help them make the decision to take further steps towards a career as a firefighter or paramedic.
The Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Division visited the Huntington Beach Fire Department Explorers to discuss the concepts of community risk reduction and fire extinguisher use. The Explorers learned how to use a data driven analysis to reduce community risk in the community through the five “E’s” of CRR: Engineering, Enforcement, Education, Emergency Response, and Economic Incentives.
After learning about CRR, the Explorers were taught how to use a fire extinguisher by utilizing the Bullex fire extinguisher simulator and the virtual reality headset. They also had the chance to ask questions about the CRR division and learn more about how the fire service interacts with the community in various ways.
Seven of the HBFD Fire Explorers were selected to go to the OCFA Fire Training Academy for a week in July. The pictures are from the graduation ceremony on the Saturday after completion.
The Orange County Fire Authority Fire Cadet Program is an official department function. It is the intent of the Fire Authority, in conjunction with the Learning For Life, to offer young adults real life experiences, training, and exposure to the career opportunities available in the fire service.ways.
Examples of non-hazardous activities to familiarize Cadets with the nature and complexities of the fire service may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Pre-fire planning
- Hydrant maintenance program
- Assist with crowd and traffic control at Fire Authority functions
- Participate in information programs given to the public
- Assist station personnel with record keeping, and vehicle and station maintenance
- Door-to-door fire prevention contacts
- Write minor standard reports
- Participate as observers in ride-along program