Fire Exploring Program
The Vista Fire Department Fire Exploring Program is an official department function. It is the intent of the department, in conjunction with the Boy Scouts of America (Learning for Life program), to offer young adults real life experiences, training and exposure to the career opportunities available in the fire service.
Candidates for the position of Fire Explorer are both young men and women who are 15 through 20 years of age. Preference will be given to City of Vista/District residents and may comply with the following conditions:
- Be free of any physical defects that would cause injury to themselves of jeopardize other participants in the program.
- Have no negative contact with any Law Enforcement Agency or school official.
- Must maintain "fire safe" grooming standards.
- While attending high school, the Explorer must maintain an over grade point average of at least 2.0 (C).
- Submit an application with a resume and a one page essay on why you want to be a "Fire Explorer".
**Note – Applications are taken once a year in October for interviews in Nov./Dec. and starting the program in January. - An oral interview/appraisal board will be done with the candidate.
- A background check will be done.
Training takes place twice monthly on Saturdays from 0830 to 1530 hours. Explorers are issued firefighting gear and once trained are allowed to ride along as part of an engine company, truck company or a medic unit. The new explorers must complete 6 months of training prior to doing ride alongs. Also, Explorers are restricted to Non-firefighting operations but can help in support functions at all incidents under direction of the company Captain.
If you are interested in this program, contact Engineer R. Tilch (Post 1200 Advisor) at the following e-mail: RTILCH@ci.vista.ca.us
View the Explorer Training Schedule.