By Linda Chuss

The Upton Fire and EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Department is seeking four to six adult advisors for their Explorer Post 36. Exploring is a coed program of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) for 14- to 20-year-olds to learn important skills through immersive career experiences and mentorship provided by community and business leaders.

In Upton, Post 36 focuses on the Fire and EMS field. According to Chief Michael Marchand, “From 2008 to 2020, the department successfully operated the post, but then COVID restrictions led to a dormant period. We’re looking to reactivate it now and need a few post leaders to assist with that. While key people from our department work with the post, we want to relieve that demand on our staff by adding volunteer advisors.”

The typical volunteer for Post 36 is someone who has been in a fire service role or has a military or scouting background. They should have experience working with teens and need to complete a CORI background check. Regular time expectations are two scheduled evenings a month for meetings and training sessions, plus support for unplanned work or non-routine events.

Upton Fire and EMS is seeking adult volunteers to help reactivate the Exploring Program, where teens learn valuable skills and help the department. Photo courtesy of Connor Shults

“The program is a win-win for everyone,” said Marchand. “Volunteer leaders and the Explorers receive training that mirrors what’s provided for on-call, fire academy recruits. They even get their own gear. Initially, they help with things like lifting hoses and logistics. For example, post members help maintain the gate and perimeter at the annual fireworks event. Over time, they would assist with things like brush fires. 

“A few years back, a member of the Explorer post rode in the truck with the chief at that time, during a storm, helping the chief to identify downed wires and trees. That Explorer ultimately went into fire protection engineering. A number of the Explorers end up in fire service, EMS, or public safety careers, or serve as adult volunteers in those areas. One of our Explorers became a chief.

“Program participants benefit from the training and experience, and our department and the town benefit from their help and the skills they develop. It’s a key part of our department’s recruitment process.”

There is also a bonding that takes place among the volunteer leaders and with the Explorers and department members. Post members and leaders participate in fundraising and social functions held by the Upton Fire and EMS support association.

Anyone with questions about volunteering, or who is interested in being an adult advisor to Explorer Post 36, can contact the chief at [email protected] or at 508-529-3421.