The Ukiah Fire Department also has an Explorer Post chartered through the Boy Scouts of America. This group of school-age individuals receives training in the various aspects of the fire service, although they are not permitted to be directly involved in emergency incidents. What these Explorer Scouts are able to do is to attend emergency incidents and provide support services, while they learn the specifics of the various types of emergencies handled by the fire department.

Explorer Post 2150 was started to provide an opportunity for youth of high school age to experience the inner workings of the specialized area of the fire service. Chartered through the Boy Scouts of America, the Post operates under strict guidelines, and is overseen by career and volunteer personnel. Explorers have the opportunity to train in the use of fire equipment, and are issued safety equipment so that they may be present at emergency incidents. While limited in the work that they can actually do at emergencies, the experience of being there is invaluable.

Explorers generally age from 14 to 18 years. Upon attaining age 18, they can move into the Volunteer ranks, where, having already received training, they can begin to function immediately on actual emergencies. These individuals annually attend a conference of other Explorer Posts, where they meet their counterparts, learn new techniques, and are able to participate in fire-related activities as a team.

This has been a very positive and beneficial program, not only for the City, but also for the youth themselves-giving them direction, purpose, and an opportunity to grow.

For information on joining Explorer Post 2150, contact the Explorer Post Coordinator Captain John Corippo at 707-462-7921.