Oceanside Fire is proud to present the Junior Fire Explorer Program!

The Oceanside Fire Explorer Post is a hands-on training program designed for young men and women ages 14-20, who are interested in a future career in the fire service.
Purpose
The purpose of the Fire Explorer Program is to expose Oceanside’s youth to various aspects of the fire service while developing character, citizenship and responsibility. The program prepares participants for the competitive path to a career in the Fire Department.
Organization
The Oceanside Fire Explorer Post will comprise of 16 young men and women from within the community. Firefighters from the Oceanside Fire Department will instruct and oversee all Post activities. An emphasis is placed on youth safety. At no time will Explorers enter a burning structure or be used in place of paid firefighters.
Requirements
– 14- – 20 years old
– 9th grade or above
– GPA of 2.5 or above
– Resident of Oceanside or Camp Pendleton
– Physically capable of performing basic fire service tasks (ex. running, lifting, climbing, crawling)
Activities
– Weekly Drill Nights Tuesdays 6PM-9PM
o Explorers will be taught basic fire and life-saving related skills. Drill Nights will combine physical fitness routines, classroom learning, and manipulative skills practice.
– Fire Department, Charity and Fundraising Events
o Explorers are expected to participate in volunteer activities in addition to the weekly drill nights.
– Explorer Academy: 8 Saturdays beginning in February
o Explorers will participate in a mini-fire academy where they will be taught and tested on a variety of basic skills.
– Ride Alongs at Oceanside Fire Stations
o After 6 months of participation and completion of a task book, Explorers will be given the opportunity to ride along on in-service fire engines. Explorers will have a unique experience, to observe first-hand what is required of firefighters operating in real emergencies.
Cost
Explorers will be expected to purchase their own boots (approx. $125) and pay an annual $25 registration fee. Accommodations can be made for applicants experiencing financial hardship.
The remainder of the uniform and firefighting will be loaned to the Explorer as long as they remain a participant of the program.
Selection
Eligible candidates may turn in an application to the Fire Administration office located on the second floor of City Hall. It is recommended that applicants attach a resume to their application. Applications will be accepted year round. Applicants will be contacted for an oral interview to take place during the month of September.
For any applicant that wishes to build a resume, but does not have access to a computer otherwise.
Applications may be obtained in person at the Fire Administration office or online at https://www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/gov/hr/volunteer.asp (select the “Volunteer Application”).