Strengthening Local Youth Through EXPLORING: Fire & EMS

    Explore Fire Fighting, Rescue and EMS and Earn High School Credits

Available to students in grades 9-12, Explorers meet to participate in activities related primarily to fire, rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS).  Members of the Explorers are exposed to activities from station and apparatus familiarity to hands-on rescue exercises, following the guidelines set forth by the National Exploring Committee.  

Explorers undergo a three-step promotional process. Individuals start with an “Exploratory” level and receive hands on training in fire, rescue, and EMS skills.  Skills, taught and performed in a safe environment, include ladder operations, hose advancement, search and rescue, vehicle stabilization/extrication/rescue, fire suppression (fire extinguishers), differences between ALS and BLS medical calls, and leadership skills.  As Explorers become more comfortable and competent with these exposures, they are evaluated for the ability to ride along with on-duty personnel to emergency calls.  Students then receive training to operate during select emergency calls.

Explorers also collaborate with the fire department to operate a relief fund for their community, funded through Explorer-organized fundraising programs.

In addition to fire, rescue, and EMS experiences, Explorers are exposed to

Police operations with the Connecticut State Police
Aviation operations through the Windham Airport
Paramedic operations with the Windham Hospital Paramedic Program
Flight medical operations with the LifeStar program 
Dispatch operations with the Tolland County Mutual Aid Fire Service (TN).

How to Enroll 

To join this program, future Explorers must apply and receive a recommendation from an adult supervisor (such as a teacher, a job supervisor, etc.)

         For more information, students are encouraged to talk with their guidance counselor when signing up for classes.                                     E.O. Smith students will receive class credit for their attendance.

Explorers Will

Learn Important Leadership Skills
Participate in Hands-on Projects to give them a real feel for whether this career is the right one for them
Network with professionals who work in these careers daily and who use the latest technology
Learn about the educational requirements for a career in fire and emergency services and receive tangible advice on steps they can
take now to prepare and position themselves for a successful career in the field of fire and EMS

Fire & EMS Exploring Offers the Following Benefits

Improved self-confidence
Leadership experience and social network development
Fun and Exciting “hands-on” career experiences
Community service opportunities
College & Career Readiness preparation
Scholarship opportunities

The Most Popular Fire & EMS Careers Include

Fire fighter
EMT
Paramedic
Emergency services coordinator
Forest Firefighter
Emergency Shelter Managers
Ski patrol
Search and rescue
Fire inspector, investigator