On Tuesday, the Knoxville Fire Department in partnership with the Boy Scouts of America and Explorer post 686 kicked off the first of three days of its Fire Explorer Academy at the KFD training center.
Explorer posts exist to teach meaningful life and career skills to young people from all backgrounds through immersive career experiences and mentorship by skilled Knoxville firefighters. The program aims to build character and equip young people with leadership and life skills that they can use today and in their future careers.
During the Explorer orientation program, they will learn leadership techniques and train on firefighting skills; hose lay evolutions, ladder techniques, salvage operations, proper use of firefighting tools and equipment, breathing apparatus use, and other related subjects.
Once fully qualified and under the direct supervision of KFD personnel, Fire Explorers will have the opportunity to participate in ride-along shifts. After completing a training academy, Fire Explorers will assist KFD firefighters in station activities and participate in certain emergency incidents (on a limited basis). In addition, participants will continue regular training activities and be a part of various community service activities, such as staffing booths at safety fairs, city events and public fire educational demonstrations.
Information provided by the Knoxville Fire Department.