Police Officer Preparation & Law Enforcement Resource - Archive

hey
I'm planning on joining the explorers program, was just curious to see if any posts allow explorer's to carry radios, for example during security details or public events the explorers might be involved in,
thanks
batt62

Each post is different but the answer to your question in general is yes Explorers are issued radio's but sometimes they have their own channels. The radio's are rarely taken home and tightly controlled by the post and department.

ok, cool, thanks, and while were on subject, what do post's usually issue explorer's when their on security detail, I'm sure it varies, but I'm just curious to see what people usually carry

You really want to avoid using the wording “Security” as the regulation around is very much a gray area. Explorers do event and while the duties involve patrol and traffic control they do not handle patrons, or search. Equipment varies from post to post and depends on what the administration of the department has authorized. The post I belonged to had levels of explorers and different qualifications; with each step you were allowed to add different items to your duty belt.

http://www.realpolice.net/forums/police-explorer-58/93922-essentials-new-explorer.html

ok, cool, thanks, I was a little confused, I've done some searching on this forum, and notice a lot of people mention security as a duty, but thanks for that, and I'm a little confused when you say "is very much a gray area" can you clarify what you mean?

Boy Scouts of America is the parent program of Exploring; BSA has in place regulations which a lot of “posts” choose to follow but some ignore while maintaining their Explorer affiliation. The administration of the department opinions may differ on what Explorers should be allowed to do, or capable of but due to the BSA insurance policy several activities are restricted.

Office Explorer Guideline Page (http://www.learningforlife.org/exploring/lawenforcement/)

ok, good deal, but I don't know if you ever answered, if explorer's are on patrol, or at a public place, what do they usually carry?

This is a controversial topic which has been debated many time’s between Officers and Explorers both here on the forum, and in departments across the country. Currently there is no national policy besides some base rules that BSA has posted. Clearly no weapons are allowed such as Batons, OC, or Firearms but other items vary between posts.

Normally junior explorers are allowed to carry fewer items than senior explorers. Explorers who have dedicated to the program may be rewarded by advisors by being allowed to carry equipment, junior Explorers may have little when riding with Officers.

What interest's you must in the program?