Explorer Post 911 Offers Young Men & Women Insight Into Fire Service

The El Paso Fire Department's Explorer Post 911 is designed to introduce young men and women to what they can expect if they are interested in a career in the Fire service. The Fire Department Explorer post is a subsidiary of the Boy Scouts of America and all of the Explorers are registered with the Boy Scouts of America.

Explorers are introduced to everything from wearing the firefighting protective gear to using all types of tools and equipment commonly used by firefighters. Another important aspect of the Explorer Post is that it is designed to build character and develop social skills with the members. They elect leaders and are encouraged to handle issues and problems that develop within the group to improve their interaction skills.

The Post has been involved in many community events. They have worked with the Special Olympics, Salvation Army's Kettle Kick Off, Community Safety Fairs, and many others. All are designed to teach members to give back to the El Paso community and to help others that are less fortunate. The Post, which started with 6 members, has grown to over 25 members and 7 of its past members who started in the Post, have gone on to become firefighters with the El Paso Fire Department and continue to serve as Advisors for the Program.

Explorer Post 911 Offers Young Men & Women Insight Into Fire Service

The Program Coordinator for El Paso Fire Department's Explorer Post 911, which has been in existence for over 4 years, is Fire Battalion Chief Matt G. Widtfeldt, a 23-year veteran of the El Paso Fire Department. Any young men and women who are interested in joining or wanting information on the El Paso Fire Departments Explorer Post 911 program are encouraged to attend their weekly meetings every Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. and are held at the EL Paso Fire Department Training Academy located at Ascarate Park or they can contact Chief Matt Widtfeldt at 565-7860.