Fire Explorer Program

The Allen Fire Department began Explorer Post 1953 in April of 2002. The program is designed to give young adults, ages 15-21, an opportunity to learn about the fire service while providing a community service. The Post gives youths the opportunity to explore fire fighting and emergency medical services to determine if it is a career they would be interested in pursuing.

Members not only get a first hand look at the fire service, they are given the opportunity to enjoy organized recreational activities, competitive events and community interaction while working in a professional atmosphere. Exploring gives young people the opportunity to develop interpersonal relationships, leadership and organizational skills.

Explorers are exposed to fire department operations, which include, structural fire fighting, emergency medical services, hazardous materials, special rescue and the 9-1-1 emergency operations center. The Explorer training program includes instruction in the following areas:

The objective of the training is to promote learning, teamwork, leadership, and organization with a hands-on approach that allows the member to experience fire department operations under close supervision.

Requirements for Membership

For more information, e-mail gtruitt@cityofallen.org or call 214.509.4400

Frequently Asked Questions

What functions do Explorers perform?
Explorers assist firefighters with support operations while riding on fire apparatus during scheduled times. They may assist in deploying hose lines, changing SCBA, assisting in salvage & overhaul; and retrieving equipment on medical emergency calls. This is a few of the skills Explorers are taught and perform.
Do Explorers need any experience to join?
Explorers must complete a six-month training program that teaches Explorers basic skills to serve as a member of the firefighting team. Certified instructors provide the training during weekly meetings at various fire stations in Allen.

Does joining the Explorers certify me as a firefighter?
It is not the intent of the Allen Fire-Rescue to certify Explorers as firefighters. The Explorer program helps serve as an educational tool that will benefit Explorers planning to become firefighters.

What must I do to join the Explorer program?
First, Explorer candidates must complete an application. Upon the post receiving the application, an interview and background check are scheduled. Once this process is completed the candidate is notified that he/she is accepted or denied to the post based on the information received from the background check and interview. Applications are available at Central Fire Station, 310 Century Parkway, Allen, Texas 75013.

Click here to download an application