CHP announces Explorer program for young men and women
A California Highway Patrol Explorer meeting is set for Wednesday, Jan. 24, at 6 p.m. at the Quincy Fire Department, 505 Lawrence St.
Teens and adults, ages 15 to 21, with a grade point average of 2.0 or higher are welcome to learn if a career in the CHP is the right fit.
To determine if an individual is cut out to be a CHP officer, applicants take part in the CHP Explorer Academy.
A background check is necessary for all participants in order to attend the four academy training levels in the CHP Explorer training program.
Explorer academies provide basic training in different areas of police work, including learning radio codes, patrol vehicle operation and traffic control.
Level one involves basic Explorer training, often held at the local CHP office. This 24-hour process includes the history of the CHP, how to use patrol radio equipment and communications, and basic instruction in leadership and in ethics. This first, basic level sets the tone for the next training levels.
Level two involves a 16-hour class that covers CPR basics and first aid. This is a major skill level for all Explorers and CHP officers alike. Handling accident scenes and injured victims is a common role of the CHP.
Level three is described as an intense seven-day training at the CHP Academy in Sacramento. This is an Explorer’s first real opportunity to see what it takes to become a CHP cadet.
Level three is a live-in component of the program where Explorers receive instruction in 30 subjects, including physical training, accident investigation, California Vehicle Code, how to make an arrest and control the subject, regulations concerning driving under the influence investigation and the laws of arrest.
Once an Explorer successfully completes this phase of the program, he or she is awarded a cloth badge indicating their transition to full Explorer. This gives them the added benefit of being fully prepared to become a CHP officer.
Level four is the seven-day live-in program at the academy in Sacramento. To qualify for this level, a participant must have successfully completed the first three levels. At this stage, the participant must be at least 19 1/2 years old and in excellent health and physical condition.
During level four instruction, participants are given the opportunity to drive a real patrol vehicle on the Emergency Vehicle Operations Course and participate in live fire training at the range.
It’s during this level that participants receive knowledge about the CHP’s testing and hiring process by competing in physical ability tests, taking a practice written exam and speaking to a background investigator. The participant also receives information about the psychological evaluation process.
Level four is designed for those Explorers who have applied for, or will be applying for, the position of CHP cadet or have demonstrated a commitment to the CHP and the Explorer Post.
For more information about the CHP’s Explorer program, call 916-843-3275 or contact the Quincy Area CHP office at 283-1100.
That’s awesome! Be safe out there!
I am impressed with our law enforcement getting involved with the community and the youth. I wish all departments were doing this. Maybe as small communities we have an advantage.