Youth Firefighting Training: Clark County Explorer Program

The Clark County Fire Department Explorer Program is welcoming new applicants in June 2025, offering a hands-on introduction to firefighting for young adults ages 16 to 21. This immersive training opportunity mirrors the CCFD Firefighter Academy, helping youth build real-world skills and leadership qualities through direct experience.

Michael Cuvin – Senior Advisor CCFD Explorer Program

Training the Next Generation of Firefighters

Participants in the Explorer Program receive instruction in basic firefighting skills, fire ground tactics, and physical training. They also develop a strong work ethic, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities—essential qualities not just for a career in fire service, but for any career or educational path.

According to Clark County Fire Chief Billy Samuels, “The Explorer Program is an invaluable experience for young adults interested in the fire service. Countless dedicated Explorers have gone on to become firefighters, not only as members of the Clark County Fire Department, but for our neighboring departments as well.”

Ori Hutcherson – CCFD Explorer Program

Weekly Fire Academy Experience for Youth

Explorers meet every other Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at the CCFD Training Center, located at 4425 West Tropicana Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89103. Each session includes:

  • Physical training (PT)
  • Academic studies using official CCFD Firefighter Academy materials
  • Realistic firefighting drills like hose deployment and ladder placement

As participants advance, they gain access to job shadowing opportunities at active CCFD fire stations.

Key Dates for June 2025 Enrollment

The Clark County Fire Department invites interested youth to attend the following events:

  • Observation Day – June 7, 2025: Prospective applicants can observe an Explorer session, meet instructors, and ask questions.
  • Test Day – June 21, 2025: Applicants will complete a written test, physical test, and participate in an interview.
  • First New Explorer Meeting – July 12, 2025

To participate in Test Day, candidates must bring a completed New Member Packet. Details on how to obtain this packet are available at www.joinccfd.org or by calling (702) 455-8257.

About the Clark County Fire Department

The Clark County Fire Department is the largest in Nevada, handling over 146,000 service calls in 2023. With 32 full-time and 10 volunteer stations, the department protects most of the Las Vegas Valley, including the Las Vegas Strip, Laughlin, Jean, and Primm. CCFD also supports the 5th-busiest airport in the nation and houses one of only 28 urban search and rescue teams in the United States Just Now News.

About the Author

Editor-at-Large Alan Merritt

Administrator

Alan Merritt is an international journalist and editor with over 12 years of experience across global news, television, and magazine media. Based in Las Vegas, with ties to New York and Paris, he serves as Editor-at-Large at Just Now News, a leading platform recognized for its Unscripted, Unfiltered, Unmissable coverage. In this role, he contributes a wide range of stories spanning human interest, culture, business, technology, and global affairs, bringing depth, clarity, and a global perspective to every piece.


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