Ride Out Information
Riding out is the most exciting part of the explorer program. Explorers get to go to a Dallas fire station and respond to real emergency calls with Dallas Fire Rescue. To participate in this aspect of the explorer program, an explorer has to have completed the following guidelines:
- Active participation in the program
- CPR/AED/First Aid certification
- Show a certain level of maturity
- Meet Basic Fire Explorer requirements
- Recieve ID card from Chief Robinson
When you ride out, you are required to help with station duties like cleaning, cooking, restocking equipment, etc. If you work hard, the firefighters will appreciate you alot and they will welcome you back to the station next time you decide to ride out.
At the station, it is important to do the following:
- Introduce yourself and get to know the firefighters
- Look over the apparatus to see where tools and equipment are located
- There is always something to do while at the fire station; you can be cleaning or organizing something (even if you're not asked to do so).
- It is okay to sit down and study or read, but you should be the last one to sit down. If a firefighter is working, you should be too.
- Reading firefighting or EMS books is a good way to learn skills that you might be able to use at a later emergency scene.
- If you have a question about something, do not be afraid to ask. A firefighter will be glad to answer your question.
- Always be respectful. You are in their house and should act like the best possible guest.
- Be the last person to eat and the first up to do the dishes.
- In the morning, ask the officer what is expected out of you when you get to a fire or emergency scene. By doing this you are showing maturity and it gives the officer time to think about what he wants you to be doing.
- Whether it's your first time at the station or your fiftieth, always act like the rookie. Do not become complacent.
All of this may sound intimidating, but it is not bad at all. You'll have a lot of fun being at the station and responding to emergency calls.
Bring $10 for meals and a couple extra dollars for drinks or snacks in between meals. An explorer under the age of 18 can only be at the station from 6:45am to 10:00pm. An explorer the age of 18 or older can stay at the station for a full 24 hour shift.
