What is a Police Explorer?
The Police Explorer program, also known as the Boy/Girl Scout Explorer, is a youth program that is sponsored by law enforcement agencies and the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) or Girl Scouts USA (GSUSA). The program is designed to provide youth, typically between the ages of 14 and 21, with a chance to learn about law enforcement, develop leadership skills, and build relationships with police officers.
History of Police Explorers
The Police Explorer program was started in the 1950s by the National Police Association, with the first Explorer post established in St. Louis, Missouri in 1959. Since then, the program has grown to become one of the largest youth programs in the United States, with over 30,000 Explorers and more than 1,300 Explorer posts across the country.
What is a Police Explorer?
Police Explorers are youth between the ages of 14 and 21 who are sponsored by a law enforcement agency and participate in the Explorers program. These young individuals are training to become law enforcement professionals, and the program is designed to provide them with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to achieve their goal.
Duties and Responsibilities of Police Explorers
As a Police Explorer, you will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, including:
• Community service: Participate in community events, parades, and functions to promote the Explorers program and build relationships with the community.
• Law enforcement training: Receive training in law enforcement procedures, first aid, and emergency response.
• Investigations: Assist police officers with investigations, including gathering evidence and conducting interviews.
• Patrols: Conduct patrols with police officers in marked police vehicles to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement.
• Special events: Participate in special events, such as fairs, festivals, and sporting events, to provide security and support.
Benefits of Being a Police Explorer
Participating in the Police Explorers program can have many benefits, including:
• Leadership development: Develop leadership skills and experience working with others.
• Career opportunities: Gain exposure to law enforcement careers and develop skills that can help you achieve your career goals.
• Community involvement: Build relationships with law enforcement officers and the community, and participate in community service projects.
• Education and training: Receive training in law enforcement procedures, first aid, and emergency response.
• Networking opportunities: Meet other Explorers and police officers, and build professional relationships that can help you in your future career.
How to Become a Police Explorer
To become a Police Explorer, you must:
• Be between the ages of 14 and 21
• Be a student in good standing
• Have a minimum grade point average of 2.0
• Pass a background check and a physical fitness test
Police Explorer Program vs. Police Cadet Program
Some people may wonder what the difference is between the Police Explorer program and the Police Cadet program. While both programs are designed to provide youth with a chance to learn about law enforcement, there are some key differences:
Police Explorer Program
• Sponsored by law enforcement agencies and the Boy/Girl Scouts of America (BSA/GSUSA)
• Youth between the ages of 14 and 21
• Training is focused on law enforcement procedures and first aid
• Participants are not necessarily interested in pursuing a law enforcement career
Police Cadet Program
• Sponsored by local police departments
• Youth between the ages of 14 and 20
• Training is focused on police department procedures and policies
• Participants are typically interested in pursuing a law enforcement career
Conclusion
The Police Explorer program is a unique opportunity for young people to learn about law enforcement, develop leadership skills, and build relationships with police officers. If you are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, or simply want to give back to your community, the Police Explorer program is an excellent way to start.