Young men and women 14 through 21 years of age, and out of middle school, can join if they have an interest in learning about a career in law enforcement. Explorers attend a very rigorous academy, which challenges them mentally and physically. In addition to the academy, they attend weekly training sessions, which include physical fitness, classes on law, and law enforcement techniques, customer service, and mentoring. Once an explorer has graduated from the academy and is in good standing with the post, he or she can ride along with a police officer. The explorer will be expected to perform non-hazardous tasks such as traffic control and reports while under the direct supervision of the officer.
Explorers provide services at many community functions.
They provide traffic control at parades and gatherings. They put together food baskets for the needy during the holidays. They provide a uniformed presence at many community events. They participate in competitions with other explorer posts that test their techniques in handling realistic law enforcement scenarios. They will undergo an oral interview and background investigation at the time of application.