Young men and women from the Exploring worksite-based program arrived at Portland Fire & Rescue’s (PF&R) Training & Safety Center in NE Portland just as fire personnel lit a tanker truck and 1972 Chevy van on fire.  As the flames rolled, 50 to 60 youth ages 14 to 20 gathered a safe distance away to watch PF&R Recruit Class 09-01 extinguish the fires using hose from a reserve apparatus. 

The young men and women visiting PF&R’s Training Center were participating in a career education program referred to as simply “Exploring.” The Exploring program provides experiences that help young people mature and helps prepare them to become responsible and caring adults. Youth involved in the Exploring Program were invited to a “Portland After Dark” all night event that explored nighttime careers in Portland.  The careers included firefighting, SWAT, canine law enforcement, and general law enforcement. PF&R and other agencies such as the United States Coast Guard, Horizon Air, and Clackamas County Sheriffs Office took part in this unique learning experience.

After extinguishing the fire, firefighters from PF&R spoke to the youth. Firefighters discussed what it takes to be a firefighter and a leader in today’s world, what a typical day is like in the firefighting field, and how to be successful not only as a firefighter but as a citizen in their community. 

Visit http://joinexploring.com/index.htm to learn more about the Exploring Program and upcoming events!

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April 27, 2010