The Covington Fire Department is offering anyone interested in learning about firefighting techniques and technology the opportunity to join the Explorer Program.

“The Explorer Program gives participants a good look at what firefighting is all about,” Chief Bryan Jackson said. “It teaches life skills as well. Like working as a team, following instructions, accountability and leadership skills. The list of positives people take from this program is endless.”

Sanctioned by the Boy Scouts of America, the Fire Department Explorer Program meets every Monday night at 6 p.m. at Fire Station No. 2 on Alcovy Road. The program is open to anyone between the ages of 14 and 19.

Participants of different ages are allowed to do different things but everyone receives First Aid instruction, basic firefighting skills and a brief history of firefighting techniques and the evolution of the practice. Explorers also learn many of the same skills Emergency Medical Technicians use.

“My goal is for our Explorers to have the same knowledge our certified firefighters have when they complete the basic firefighting course,” Jackson said. “Once they progress, they are allowed to come to the scene of a fire with us. They can’t climb a ladder or spray water at the fire because of safety concerns, but there are lots of other ways they help us at live fires.”

There are also annual competitions on both the state and national scale, with the national event held in Tennessee. Scholarship opportunities for secondary education are available.

Interested participants can call Chief Bryan Jackson at 404-427-8607 or 770-385-2100.