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

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From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Solomon Lokomaika’i Souki, Firefighter for the Federal Fire Department Hawai’i, Station 1A Pearl Harbor, 4 years of service. 2. I was an HFD Explorer for 4 years (2014-2018).
From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Casen Cluney, Fire Fighter 1, Quint 12, 3 years of service. 2. I was an Explorer for 3 years. 3. One of the skills that resonated with me throughout my time as an Explorer would definitely
From Embers to Excellence- Fire Explorer to Fire Fighter 1. Joshua Niles-Dancy, Firefighter, Engine 108, 4 years of service. 2. Explorer for 3 years. 3. One key skill that I learned with the Explorers was knot tying. I used the different knots t
Congratulations FF Curtis, the 116th HFD Recruit class, and their ‘ohana. From explorer to firefighter—it’s been a long journey, but dedication and persistence made it all possible. Proud to serve and ready for the road ahead. 🚒🔥
Congratulations to FF Maxx on this amazing milestone! 🚒🔥 From Fire Explorer to Hawai’i Federal Firefighter, your hard work and dedication have paid off. Wishing you continued success as you embark on this next chapter of service and protect o
HFD’s Fire Recruit class spent today, September 11th honoring Hawai’i’s ali’i. Fitting time and place to honor HFD’s founder Kamehameha III, member Kalākaua, and honorary member Albert. . As these recruits stand on the
Congratulations FF Wes! Long journey finally complete! Graduation-Day 1 recruit class- #tb Explorer days . Another former Fire Explorer joining the Hawai’i Federal Fire Department brotherhood. Great to see former HFD Explorers coming to suppo
ʻAʻohe hana nui ke alu ʻia….No task is too big when done together by all. . Each team was tasked with stabilizing an object in order to remove the trapped cart. Took a few different approaches, but in the end, success! . Reminder of the stren