The Pahranagat Valley Volunteer Fire District is preparing the next generation of first responders through its Fire Explorer/Youth Trainee Program, and the young participants are already making an impression in the community.

The program includes three trainees: 18-year-old Colin Howard and 16-year-olds Trysten Poulsen and Jericho Bowman. Paperwork is currently being completed for a fourth participant.

Open to youth ages 15-18, the program requires parental consent, good academic and behavioral standing and approval from the PVFD advisor. Enrollment is capped at 10 participants to ensure quality mentorship and meaningful hands-on experience.

Explorers participate in bi-monthly training sessions and supervised ride-alongs that introduce them to real-world emergency response in a controlled, safety-focused environment. A rank advancement system allows participants to progress from Recruit to Senior Explorer while building discipline, responsibility, teamwork and practical fire service skills.

Under supervision, trainees assist with tasks such as hose deployment, tool staging, equipment retrieval and scene lighting. They also help with post-call responsibilities including rolling hoses, cleaning equipment, restocking apparatus and preparing tools for the next emergency response.

Their dedication was especially evident during a house fire on Presidents Day in Alamo. While others sought shelter from the rain, the trainees remained on scene helping roll hoses and clean equipment in wet conditions.

After returning to the station, they continued working for another hour to wash hoses, restock trucks and prepare equipment for the next call, all on a day off from school. For many residents, seeing teenagers willingly serve their community in difficult weather conditions was a reminder that leadership and service have no age requirement.