Running hose to put out a car fire, throwing ladders to climb through a top story window, or re-creating search and rescue drills - it's all in a day's work for the young adults in the Reno Fire Explorers program.
Every other weekend, Reno firefighters volunteer their time to train the next generation of crew members.
"We do the mentorship. We put them on the right path, and we want to see every single one of them become successful," instructional lead Justin Hurtado told 2 News Nevada.
Communities across the nation have similar courses that allow youth to explore a career in the fire service, but this program is still relatively new to Reno. Hurtado and a few of his colleagues jumpstarted the Fire Explorers a year and a half ago.
In a competitive job market for young, hopeful future-firefighters. Class lead and participant Nate Freed says the hands-on experience is pivotal for young adults like himself. He's currently working for the Reno Fire logistics department, delivering supplies, while he applies for his dream job on the force.
"This program has made me and continuing to make me into the man that I'd really like to be," he told 2 News Nevada.
The Reno Fire Explorers program is designed for youth ages 16-21. For information on recruitment and getting involved, follow their Instagram page: Reno Fire Explorers Post 775, @renofireexplorers775.
