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Explorer Post 999
The Delano Police Department Explorer Post, Post 999, was established over 20 years ago. Since the inception of this Post, literally hundreds of our community’s youth have participated in this program. In fact, our records indicate that approximately 60% of these fine young adults have taken up careers in the field of law enforcement. We are proud of our Explorer Post. Our Explorer Post consists of young adults ages 15 to 24. When an Explorer turns 21 years of age, they become Cadets. To remain in the Post, they must be enrolled in college taking at least one college course in criminal justice.
A: Yes, all of our Explorers wear uniforms and are responsible for the purchase of them. However, the post is able to assist an Explorer with a uniform purchase.
Q: Are Explorers allowed to carry weapons and make arrests?
A: No. Explorers are expected to be good witnesses and do not carry weapons nor make arrests.
Q: Can Explorers drive police cars?
A: Only a cadet from the Explorer Post may drive department vehicles, but only after attending a department sponsored driver safety presentation.
Q: How can I apply to become an Explorer?
A: Come to the Police Department and pick up an application or print one here, fill it out and drop it off at the Police Department.
Duties
Explorers receive training and are able to ride with our officers on patrol. They perform traffic control duties, assist in missing persons/children searches, assist in special events, conduct street lighting surveys, as well as graffiti patrols as requested. Our Cadets have been trained to take cold call reports such as vandalism, theft reports, etc.What does it take to join the Explorer ranks?
Post 999 is authorized a maximum of 25 Explorers and/or Cadets. Currently we have 14 Explorers and 3 Cadets, and are always looking for new additions to our team. In order to be considered for the Explorers/Cadets assignment, you must:- Have at least a 2.0 GPA and in good standing in school.
- Be at least 15 years old and not older than 24 years of age.
- Volunteer at least 20 hours per month at the Police Department.
- Complete at least one (1) community service project a month.
- Must complete an Explorer application.
- Must pass a minor background check.
What else do Explorers do?
Each year the Explorer Post, along with their advisers, take overnight field trips to various locations throughout California. The Explorers raise their own funds for these trips, and have a great deal of fun in doing so. So far, the Explorers have visited Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Universal Studios, Magic Mountain, Pismo Beach, and Ventura Beach.Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Explorers wear uniforms and if so, who pays for them?A: Yes, all of our Explorers wear uniforms and are responsible for the purchase of them. However, the post is able to assist an Explorer with a uniform purchase.
Q: Are Explorers allowed to carry weapons and make arrests?
A: No. Explorers are expected to be good witnesses and do not carry weapons nor make arrests.
Q: Can Explorers drive police cars?
A: Only a cadet from the Explorer Post may drive department vehicles, but only after attending a department sponsored driver safety presentation.
Q: How can I apply to become an Explorer?
A: Come to the Police Department and pick up an application or print one here, fill it out and drop it off at the Police Department.