The Irvine Police Explorers is a program that allows teenagers to investigate a career in law enforcement. Explorers volunteer at a variety of community events and provide services ranging from traffic control to fingerprinting small children. After explorers complete a five-day training academy, they are invited to participate in monthly patrol ride-alongs. "I have the best time when I am on ride-alongs, I get to be right in the middle of all the action. I have been able to have a much better understanding of law enforcement and now know that this would be a great career." said Police Explorer Captain, Scott Grange.
Explorers meet the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, at 6:30 p.m. During meetings, they discuss upcoming events and receive training ranging from homicide investigation to first aid. Explorers are greatly involved in the community and encourage all members to develop strong ethics and leadership. Many former explorers have gone onto careers in law enforcement.
The Explorers raise money while working community events and use that money to take annual summer vacations. Past trips have included: a five-day cruise, seven days in Hawaii and this year they will travel up north for a river-rafting trip.
The police department recruits new explorer members throughout the school year. Those interested are encouraged to attend the open house. Candidates must attend two consecutive meetings and complete an oral interview. Those interested in joining, should be of strong moral character and free of any significant criminal history.
For more information, call the Irvine Explorer Hotline at 949-724-7048.
City of Irvine 1 Civic Center Plaza Irvine, CA 92606-5207 Phone: 949-724-6000 Hours of Operation:
Mon.- Thur. 7:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.
