Program Overview

The Explorer program’s purpose is to provide role models to help educate young adults with hands-on knowledge of fire service skills through organized bi-weekly meetings and training. The program participates in the recruitment and mentorship of new explorer members.  Explorers are exposed to different career paths available within fire service and gain a basic understanding of the skills necessary to operate safely at a fire scene.

Management Oversight

The Explorer program is directed by the Division Chief of Training with oversight authority delegated to the Battalion Chief and program coordinator. This program does not have any full-time equivalent employees. This program contains expenses pertaining to general supplies and equipment purchases and overtime for training and program administration.

Program Objectives

• Attract and educate our community's youth about careers in the Fire Service, our Explorer and Cadet programs, as well as financial assistance available to those in need. 
• To expose explorers to the different career paths available within the fire service. 
• Orientation, registration, and issuance of uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE). 
• Provide explorer training and a basic understanding of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to operate safely at an emergency scene under supervision. 
• Provide support and mentorship to Explorers throughout the year. 
• Provide Explorer volunteer opportunities at yearly Fire District and community events. 
• Ensure successful completion of the Explorer program and prepare students to advance into the Menlo Park Fire Cadet program. 

FY 2024-25 Accomplishments

• Held bi-weekly meetings and training sessions to support ongoing development and engagement within the Explorer program.

• Conducted hands-on training in Firefighting, EMS, and Rescue skills to build practical experience and readiness.

• Explorers actively volunteered at numerous community events, including the Chili Cook-Off, Relay for Life, San Mateo County Disaster Preparedness Day, Menlo Park Fire Pancake Breakfast, Easter Egg Hunt, Toy Drive, South County Drill, Halloween Haunted Firehouse, and the San Mateo County Public Safety Memorial Service.

• Two former Explorers, Miguel Martinez and Justine Calvert, advanced to become Menlo Park Fire Cadets in January 2025.

• Miguel Martinez received the Menlo Park Fire Explorer Scholarship in May 2024 and successfully completed his Firefighter I (FF1) certification in December 2025.

• Former Explorer and Cadet Christian Aceves was hired by the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) and graduated from the fire academy in December 2024.

FY 2025-26 Program Initiatives

• Encourage eligible Explorers to apply for the Menlo Park Fire District Scholarship to support their progression toward a firefighting career, including completion of Firefighter I (FF1) and EMT certifications, and transition into the Cadet program.

• Participate in the California Fire Explorer Academy to provide additional training, networking, and career development opportunities.

• Conduct bi-weekly meetings and training sessions to ensure consistent engagement and skill development.

• Facilitate orientation and registration for new Explorers, and issue uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Provide diverse volunteer opportunities to promote community involvement and real-world experience.

• Administer Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) testing to assess Explorer readiness and track progress.

• Organize a two-day, in-house Mini Academy for all current Explorers to reinforce core competencies and team-building.