 The Ross Valley Fire Department Explorer program began in 1982 during the merger of the San Anselmo and Fairfax Fire Departments. After a period of inactivity in the early 90's the post was reestablished in 1993 by Mark Weston and Dave Stasiowski. The post is thriving due to the hard work of department personnel and the support of the fire chief and the fire board. The program is open to high school students, age 16 and older. Fire Explorers are trained in various aspects of the firefighter career. The training includes skills needed at a fire scene, medical emergency, and other general emergencies. After completing the required training, the Fire Explorers are eligible to 'Ride-Along' with the engine companies. Drills and trainings are held most weekends, with the year culminating at a weeklong, Annual Explorer Academy. Each year the the Academy is held at a location chosen from around the state. This year it will be based in San Anselmo, at Sir Francis Drake High School. It was held the week of April 12, 2009. The week included a very intensive schedule of fire training; basic firefighting skills, wildland firefighting, structural firefighting, rescue techniques, and various "tools of the trade". During the Academy, the explorers hold ranks from Recruit to Academy Fire Chief and follow the "Chain of Command" very closely. Their days are long and tiring, but ask any of them and they’ll tell you they truly appreciated the experience! Members of the Ross Valley and Marin County Fire Departments coordinated and planned the academy. Other instructors included personnel from many fire departments throughout California, who generously donated their time for this outstanding event. Ross Valley Fire Department Explorer Advisors include:
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