Sponsored by Snohomish Fire and Rescue, Explorer Post 444 is a community-based youth program designed to educate teen youth in fire operations, and to teach community leadership and volunteer values.

Working by the philosophy that "America’s hope for the future lies in the youth of today", The Boy Scouts of America began the Explorer program for youth age 14 through 20 interested in career-oriented goals. While Exploring is a part of Learning-for-Life, it differs from other parts of the scouting organization.

Exploring is an educational teen youth program developed and supervised by local community organizations, businesses, and individuals providing an opportunity to explore a particular career field.

Those participating in Explorer Post 444, gain valuable insight into the fire and rescue services. This insight allows the participants to decide whether he or she desires to pursue a greater role in the fire service.

Fire Explorers gain personal confidence, learn to use various tools, develop mechanical skills and aptitude, learn valuable first aid and medical skills, and gain a greater awareness of personal and fire related safety.

By sponsoring Post 444, Snohomish Fire and Rescue also benefits. Explorers often assist fire personnel in duties that include public fire education, fire prevention activities, and providing support functions on fire and emergency medical scenes. The department also benefits from a higher quality of applicants to volunteer firefighter and career positions.

If you have questions, contact Rob Orton at 425-239-2439, Heide Savidge at 425-698-8853, or Craig Erickson at 425-876-5368.

If you would like to know of more firefighting educational opportunities for high school students view Sno-Isle Skills Center's website.