Become a Leader in Your Community

Join The Explorers Program Today

Welcome to The
Honolulu Fire Department Explorers Program

The Honolulu Fire Department Explorers Program offers a dynamic and comprehensive learning experience for youth aged 14-21. Our program focuses on critical aspects of firefighting, emergency response techniques, and life safety skills. Through a STEAM-based curriculum and hands-on training, participants develop essential skills and values, preparing them for future careers in fire services. Join us to gain invaluable knowledge, build character, and serve your community.

Overview of Our Program

The HFD Explorers Program offers a comprehensive range of activities designed to prepare young individuals for the challenges of firefighting and emergency response. Our programs combine hands-on skills training with a strong emphasis on STEAM education, leadership, and community service.

  • The Honolulu Fire Department Explorers Program offers a well-rounded experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Participants engage in various activities designed to prepare them for real-life firefighting and emergency response scenarios.

  • Our STEAM-based curriculum covers fire chemistry, the physics of fire behavior, and the technology used in fire suppression and rescue operations. This scientific approach enhances problem-solving skills and critical thinking.

  • Explorers learn essential firefighting techniques, including hose handling, ladder operations, and the use of breathing apparatus. Realistic training scenarios simulate actual fire situations, helping participants develop skills in fire suppression, search and rescue, and first aid.

  • We emphasize the importance of values such as teamwork, leadership, discipline, and community service. Explorers learn to work collaboratively in high-stress scenarios, enhancing their communication skills and self-confidence.

  • Explorers participate in community service projects and public safety education events, promoting fire safety awareness and contributing positively to their communities.

10 Years of Explorers

Ten years of HFD Explorers all at different stages of fulfilling their dreams of being a firefighter. Each inspiring the next generation of public servants. Our program is for those interested in a career serving their community. We are more than just a training program; we are ‘ohana!

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  • Our program's values are rooted in Hawaiian Culture.

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  • Kūpono, Aloha, Kuleana

    These are the core values of The Explorers program.

  • I ka wā ma mua, ka wā ma hope.

    The future is found in the past.

  • ‘A‘ohe hana nui ke alu ‘ia.

    No task is too big when done together by all.

  • E mālama i ka mākua, o ho‘omakua auane‘i i ka ha‘i.

    Take care of your parents, lest you will be caring for someone else’s.

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  • ‘A‘ohe pu‘u ki‘eki‘e ke hō‘ā‘ō ‘ia e pi‘i.

    No cliff is so tall that is cannot be scaled.

  • I maika‘i ke kalo i ka ‘ohā.

    The goodness of the taro is judged by the young plant it produces.

  • Training multidimensional community leaders.

    No matter where they go in life, The Explorers set a solid foundation.

  • Kū Kanaka, Kū Ha‘aheo

    Stand tall, stand proud

Connect with us on Instagram

Breaking down doors and staying hydrated! 🔥 Big mahalo to @waiakea @geoli.waiakea for keeping us fueled and ready during every tough entry. 💦👊 #ForcibleEntry #StayHydrated #MahaloWaiakea #FireLife #AlohaAina
From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Jason “Kalepa” Torres, Fire Captain, Fire Communications Center Alpha shift, currently assisting with HFD Administrative Services, 28 years service. 2. I was involved with the F
From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Kane Ka Ua Clark, Fire Fighter, Kalihi Kai Quint 31, 6 years of service. 2. I was an Explorer for two years (2015-2017). 3. Along with learning the exciting aspects of being a firefighter,
From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Robert Kalae Data, Fire Captain, Kuakini Engine 04, retired in 2019 with 28 years of service. 2. I was an Explorer for 4 years (1986-1990). 3. As an HFD Explorer, we learned many of the es
Mahalo to UH West Oahu for hosting a two-day career event for West Oahu high school students. It offered so many opportunities for our keiki to grow, learn, and succeed. We’re grateful to have been part of it!
From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Joey Condlin, Fire Captain, 25 years of HFD service, 2 years Federal FD service. 2. I was an Explorer for 8 years (1989-97). 3. I learned a lot as an Explorer- trust, hard work, knowing yo
1. Lilinoe Wilhelm, Fire Fighter, Nānākuli Engine 28, 1.5 years of service. 2. I was an Explorer for 8 years. 3. One skill I learned from my time in the Fire Explorers program was mastering ropes and knots. When I first joined, it was one of the mai
Mahalo to @kamehamehaschools for hosting an inspiring career event! It’s incredible to see Pauahi’s alumni giving back and sharing their journeys, showing the next generation how they, too, can uplift and serve our lāhui. Pauahi would b
A huge mahalo to @nhoahawaii for hosting the inaugural showcase and for including the HFD Explorers program among so many influential non-profits from across Hawaiʻi. It’s an honor to be part of this community, supporting the future of Hawaiʻ
From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Charles Griep, Captain at Training and Research Bureau Medical Section, retired in 12/2019 with 25 yrs 10 mos of service. 2. I was an Explorer for 4 years (1980-1983). 3. One skill I devel