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Explorer Program

Your Fire Service Journey Starts Here

Come see if you’ve got what it takes. 

Attend the HFD Explorers orientation to learn more.

RSVP for January 10: 

When:  Sat., Jan. 10, 8am-noon
 
Where: Henderson Fire Training Center (401 Parkson Rd., Henderson, NV 89011)
 
When:  Saturday, January 10, 8am-noon
Where: Henderson Fire Training Center (401 Parkson Rd., Henderson, NV 89011)
What to Expect on January 10:
  • Plan to stay for the full session (8am-noon)
  • Please bring a parent if under 18 or live with parents (parents will only need to stay for the first 20 minutes of the session).
  • Come clean shaven, dressed in white T-shirt, navy blue sweat pants (winter) or cotton shorts (summer) and athletic shoes. Any sweatshirt is fine for the first meeting.
  • Wear a simple watch (no Apple watch) but no jewelry allowed.
  • Bring a pen and paper. An entry test will occur at the second meeting consisting of a multiple choice test from the “HFD Advantage” material handed out at the first meeting, a physical abilities test and an interview with the advisors.
A group of young people in athletic shorts and t-shirts stands in formation outdoors, listening to an instructor wearing a Fire Department shirt. Palm trees and a building are visible in the background at dusk.
A group of trainees in athletic uniforms stand in formation outdoors while a uniformed instructor speaks to them. Firefighting gear is laid out on the ground in front of the group.
A group of young people in athletic wear stretch outdoors in formation, each holding one foot behind them. Equipment and bags are scattered on the ground. The sky is clear, and some trees and structures are visible in the background.
A group of people outdoors at dusk perform plank exercises in a row on pavement, with industrial equipment and lights in the background.

Join the Henderson Fire Department Explorer Program and gain hands-on experience, training and mentorship alongside our firefighters and paramedics.

Henderson Fire Department Explorer Post #405

The Henderson Fire Department Explorer Program #405 is designed for young adults from 16 to 24 years of age who are interested in a career in the fire service or medical field. The goal of the program is to help young adults gain self-confidence and sharpen skills that will help them succeed in life. The Post emphasizes the importance of education and career development. Many Explorers have gone on to careers with the Henderson Fire Department or other public service agencies.

What Explorers Do

Experience the real work of fire service through hands-on training and community events. As a Henderson Fire Explorer, you’ll:
 
  • Train in firefighting skills, EMS and rescue techniques
  • Participate in physical fitness and team-building drills
  • Support community safety events
  • Learn from experienced firefighters and paramedics
 
Explorers 16-17 years old may participate in the Job Shadow Program after their sixth meeting. This program allows explorers to shadow a student assistant in the logistics and administration side of the Henderson Fire Department.
 
Explorers 18 years or older with a minimum of six months of experience are eligible to participate in the Ride-Along Program. This program provides young men and women the opportunity to respond with the fire crews to various emergency scenes. Explorers ride along to observe the work of the firefighters and paramedics as they carry out their daily tasks. Explorers are allowed to assist in non-emergency fire ground duties. Explorers that have an EMT certificate through Southern Nevada Health District are allowed to assist in providing medical aid to sick or injured patients including performing CPR, oxygen administration, taking vital signs and preparing patients for transport.
 

Who Can Join

The Explorer Program is open to motivated individuals who are:

  • Ages 16–24
  • In high school, college or recently graduated
    In good academic standing, 2.6 GPA
    Available for Saturday meetings
    Ready to work as part of a team and follow the “HFD Advantage”


To succeed as an Explorer you must be willing to study, work hard, pay attention, maintain a good attendance record and maintain a professional appearance.

How to Get Started

  1. Review the program requirements
  2. Attend an orientation session (bring a parent/guardian if under 18 or live with parents, parents only need to stay for the first 20 minutes of the session)
  3. Complete the application ($50 application fee may apply)
  4. Begin your training and join the team
 

Meetings & Location

When:  Saturdays 8am-noon
Where: Henderson Fire Training Center
401 Parkson Rd., Henderson, NV 89011
 
Applications are accepted two times per year. The orientations are held the second Saturday of January and July of each year.
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