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FAIRHOPE POLICE DEPARTMENT
LAW ENFORCEMENT EXPLORER POST
RULES AND REGULATIONS
(Updated February 26, 2006)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Subject
I. Purpose
II. Membership
III. Participant Levels
IV. Attendance
V. Meetings
VI. Uniforms and Equipment
VII. Personal Grooming/Appearance
VIII. Conduct
IX. Chain of Command
X. Police Activity
XI. Miscellaneous
XII. Explorer Leaders
XIII. Ride-Along Program
I. PURPOSE
The Fairhope Police Department, in conjunction with the Boy Scouts of
America’s Learning for Life Program, has formed it’s Law Enforcement Explorer
Program to provide experiences to the young adults of our community that will
help them mature and aid in preparing them to be responsible, caring adults.
The program offers participants a chance to become involved in community
service while gaining a first hand experience of modern police operations.
It is dedicated to the training of young men and women in the methods of law
enforcement with the hope that they will serve as a positive force within the
community and prepare them for a career within their chosen profession.
Exploring has five areas of emphasis. They are:
1. Career Opportunities
2. Service Learning
3. Leadership Experience
4. Life Skills
5. Character Education
The following POST RULES AND REGULATIONS will allow all participants a clear
understanding of what post leaders expect from Explorers as well as
establishing guidelines for advisors to use in the daily leadership of the
Explorers.
II. MEMBERSHIP
Membership is open to all U.S. citizens ages 14 to 20 that have completed the
eighth grade. Members graduating high school will be allowed to continue
their participation until their 21st birthday while they are enrolled in
college or other productive form of continuing education or gainful
employment.
Individuals requesting membership will be responsible for established
membership fees. Juvenile applicants (age 17 or below) shall be subject to a
background interview conducted by the post advisor through the juvenile
crimes unit. Applicants age 18 or over shall be subject to a background
check conducted by the post advisor.
All members attending school must maintain a minimum “C” average (Alabama
grading standards 70% or above) and meet school attendance requirements to
hold active post status. All members attending school will present a current
report card, or equivalent for home school, to the lead advisor as proof of
compliance. Members who fail to present this documentation or do not meet
grade/attendance requirements, will be removed from active status and placed
on probationary status.
Members who cannot maintain a “C” grade level and are offered educational
accommodations through the school board may continue to participate on active
status based on the discretion of the post advisor and individual
limitations.
Accommodations concerning physical participation may be offered to members
unable to accomplish certain tasks, based on the discretion of the post
advisor. However, the physical nature of police work and the necessity of
movement may limit some Explorers from engaging in all functions.
III. PARTICIPANT LEVELS
Participants in the Fairhope Police Department Law Enforcement Explorer Post
will be divided into the following categories:
a. Advisor- an advisor is an adult leader that has met the requirements
established by B.S.A. and is authorized to lead Explorer training or
activities.
b. Active Member- an active member is an Explorer who has met the
membership requirements of the post, has passed probation, and may
participate in all training sessions and activities and appear at public
events and meetings in an Explorer uniform.
c. Probationary Member- a probationary Explorer is a member who joins
the post in good standing. Probationary members may attend classroom
functions, but may not participate in extra activities. He/she will remain
on probationary status until he/she displays appropriate levels of maturity
and responsibility to be issued a uniform and participate in police
activities. Active members may be returned to probationary status as a
result of a violation of post rules, academic non-compliance, the request of
his/her parent/guardian, or other discrepancies at the discretion of the post
advisor. Active members returned to probationary status will remain there
until the discrepancy is resolved and will not appear in public in uniform,
unless travelling to or from a meeting.
d. Suspended Member- an Explorer may be suspended from the post for
serious violations of established rules. Suspended members may not attend
meetings, appear in any public place in an Explorer uniform, or participate
in extra activities. The suspension will remain in effect until final
disposition is determined.
e. Post Guest- all meetings are open to guests. Persons interested in
participating in the Explorer program may attend two (2) meetings to learn
more about our post. After that, they will be encouraged to join. Parents
of post members are always welcome and may attend as often as desired. As a
guest, visitors should respect post policies and not interfere with post
activities.
Members may be completely removed from the program if their actions reflect
poorly on the City of Fairhope, the Fairhope Police Department, the Explorer
program, or any officers, employees, members or representatives of those
entities.
IV. ATTENDANCE
Attendance of regularly scheduled post meetings is mandatory. Missing two or
more consecutive meetings without excuse constitutes being AWOL and that
member will be returned to probationary status. Explorers unable to attend a
meeting are required to notify the post advisor at least twenty-four (24)
hours prior to the meeting. Examples of excused absences are school
commitments, church activities, work, illness, family obligations, or other
organized activity that requires the Explorer’s presence. Multiple unexcused
tardies or any act of leaving a meeting or activity without permission from
the advisor is grounds to be returned to probation.
V. MEETINGS
Regular meetings are scheduled for the second and fourth Tuesday of each
month from 1800 hours to 1930 hours. (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM) Tardy is defined
as arriving 15 or more minutes late. Unprepared is defined as lacking
required equipment.
VI. UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
Fairhope Police Explorers will be issued a uniform based on availability.
The uniform will consist of a navy blue police style shirt with an Explorer
patch affixed to the right sleeve and an American flag patch affixed to the
left sleeve. An Explorer badge or police badge patch will be worn above the
left breast pocket with a reflective Explorer rocker just below the badge. A
nametag or nametape will be affixed over the right breast pocket. Service
commendations, if issued, will be affixed above and centered over, the
wearers name tag. Rank insignia, if issued, will be worn on the sleeves,
centered below the patches and the sleeve cuff on short sleeve shirts.
Collar rank insignia may also be worn. No other unauthorized insignia,
devices, or paraphernalia will be displayed on an Explorer uniform. Each
Explorer will wear a black belt, khaki pants, and black shoes. Since most
Fairhope Police Explorers are students within our school system, the Explorer
uniform will incorporate aspects of the school uniform to alleviate
unnecessary costs. The belts, pants and shoes will conform with the Baldwin
County Board of Education dress policy for students, however, for the
purposes of law enforcement work, the following deviations from school policy
are permitted WHILE INVOLVED IN POLICE FUNTIONS: khaki cargo pants, a black
basket weave or nylon utility belt, and black uniform boots. All issued
uniforms and equipment remain the property of the Fairhope Police Department
and will be returned upon request.
Uniforms are authorized for wear to, from, and during scheduled meetings and
activities but under no circumstances will an Explorer appear in any public
place in uniform without prior permission from the post advisor. While in
uniform, professional demeanor is mandatory.
Uniforms and equipment will be maintained in a clean and serviceable
condition.
Explorers may wear the following equipment on their belts:
a. Flashlight
b. Radio
c. Utility pouch with first aid supplies
d. Pager and/or cell phone
e. Gloves
f. Multi-function tool (Leatherman/Swiss Army Knife/Etc)
Explorers will not carry or possess any firearms, chemical agent (pepper
spray/mace), handcuffs, baton, or other defensive or offensive weapons with
the exception of controlled, supervised training functions.
Explorers will bring necessary classroom supplies to every meeting. This
consists of a three-ring binder, pen, lined writing paper, and other items as
directed by the advisor. These supplies may be issued by the post, based
upon availability. If no supplies are available, the Explorer will purchase
supplies at his/her own expense. Any handouts or training materials given
during class will be maintained in the binder, unless the nature of the item
prevents this.
VII. PERSONAL GROOMING/APPEARANCE
Explorers in uniform will maintain high standards of personal grooming and
appearance. Uniforms will be clean, free of unnecessary wrinkles, and free
of offensive odor. Pants WILL be securely fastened at the waist and WILL NOT
sag. Leather belts, shoes/boots, and leather equipment will be polished in
black. If boots are worn, the pants will be unbloused and will hang
naturally.
Additionally, these standards will apply while in uniform:
MALES: Hair will be neatly groomed. Hair will not fall below the bottom of
the shirt collar nor extend (spike/Mohawk) more than two inches from the
scalp. Bangs will not fall below the natural brow line or eyebrow. Male
Explorers of age will be neatly shaved. No earrings are allowed in uniform.
Necklaces must be concealed by the uniform shirt. Conservative watches are
permitted. A maximum of two conservative rings may be worn so long as they
do not interfere with training. Male Explorers will not use visible
cosmetics.
FEMALES: Hair will be neatly groomed. Hair longer than the collar will be
worn in a bun, braid or ponytail. Bangs will not fall below the natural brow
line. Long bangs will be pulled back from the face and secured. Earrings
must be small stud-type earrings or small hoops conservative in appearance,
maximum two per ear. Necklaces must be concealed by the uniform shirt.
Conservative watches are permitted. A maximum of two conservative rings and
two conservative bracelets may be worn so long as they do not interfere with
training. Make-up, if used, will be conservative, in good taste and not
applied excessively. Fingernail polish, if used, will be a shade of red,
white, or clear.
Out of respect to each individual’s rights to self-expression while out of
uniform, the post advisor may issue a waiver concerning the hair
requirements. If an Explorer’s hair can not be worn in compliance with this
policy, an Explorer hat may be worn to ensure proper appearance.
No Explorer will have piercings or body jewelry in view while in uniform
except as described above.
Explorers will be in uniform to participate in Explorer activities.
VIII. CONDUCT
All Explorers will comply with the rules and regulations set forth in this
policy. Additionally, no Explorer will violate any local, state, or federal
law or ordinance. Explorers will maintain high standards of personal conduct
and set the appropriate example in all circumstances. Conduct unbecoming an
Explorer is grounds for suspension or removal from the program.
The following general conduct guidelines will be followed:
a. Insubordination or disrespect towards any advisor, Explorer, police
officer, reserve officer, and/or city employee is not permitted.
b. In all contacts with the public, Explorers will maintain good manners
and polite attitude.
c. No Explorer will conduct themselves in a manner that brings disgrace,
embarrassment, or discredit to the department, post, or city.
d. No Explorer will use profanity.
e. No Explorer will consume or possess any alcoholic beverage or illegal
drug.
f. No Explorer will publicly criticize the City, the Department, the
Explorer program or any employee, action or policy of those groups.
g. No Explorer will use any tobacco product in uniform. No Explorer
under the age of 19 will use or possess any tobacco product.
h. No Explorer is to take any action at any crime scene, collision, or
disaster unless directly involved in a post activity. This does not prevent
an Explorer from affecting basic first aid or life saving measures if trained
to do so and the action is safe.
i. No Explorer will release any confidential information to the public.
Confidential information includes details of investigations, arrests, crimes,
criminal history, victim information, or other specifics learned during
Explorer operations.
j. Officers of the department will be addressed by name and rank at all
times. Appropriate courtesy is mandatory.
k. Explorers will notify the advisor if any medical condition exists
that would affect training or participation. Explorers will notify the
advisor if any medication is being used that would affect his/her ability to
participate.
l. No Explorer will socialize with any department member outside of post
activities with the exception of appropriate friendships or pre-existing
contacts, such as family events, organized activities, church, etc. No
Explorer will engage in any inappropriate activities with any department
member. Appropriate will be defined based upon existing community standards.
m. Public display of affection is prohibited. No uniformed Explorer
will engage in any such activity during any post event. All Explorers will
be held to high standards regarding personal relationships during post
activities, whether in public view or not.
n. No Explorer will use his/her position as an Explorer to seek
favoritism or preferential treatment.
No Explorer who becomes the subject of any law enforcement
action will attempt to sway or deter the action by using his/her Explorer
status. Explorers will notify the lead advisor if they become the subject of
an investigation, receive a citation (criminal or traffic), are arrested, or
taken into custody. Notification will be as soon as reasonably possible.
o. Knowingly providing false information to an advisor is grounds for
removal from the program.
IX. CHAIN OF COMMAND
Explorers will follow all orders and directions issued by members or officers
placed over them. In the event the Explorer receives an order which is in
doubt, he/she will seek instruction from the issuing officer. If the order
is in conflict with these rules, the Explorer will politely inform the
issuing officer of the conflict. He/she will then notify the advisor as soon
as possible. Explorers need not comply with orders they know to be illegal,
immoral, or unsafe. The Explorers chain of command will include any post
Explorer promoted to a position of leadership, the post advisors, the lead
advisor, the on-duty police supervisor during police activities, and the
Chief of Police. It will also include any officer or employee to whom the
Explorer is assigned for activities.
X. POLICE ACTIVITY
Explorers may participate in the following activities as assigned and based
upon availability:
a. Ride-Alongs- Authorized Explorers may accompany a full time police
officer in a patrol car. Parental permission is required. Explorers will
coordinate the activity with the lead advisor. Explorers may exit the patrol
car only when deemed safe by the assigned officer. Explorers should remain
in the vehicle at any scene where a probable hazard exists. Explorers may
use the in-car police radio with the permission of the assigned officer and
in accordance with established police procedure. Additionally, the
provisions of the Ride-along section of the rules will apply. (Section XIII)
b. Parades/Ball Games/Public Events- during special events, Explorers
may be assigned a traffic control position, parking control assignment, crowd
control, public assistance, or other tasks identified by the advisor or
police supervisor. Explorers may be assigned to assist in the communications
room.
c. Police Training- Explorers may be offered opportunities to travel for
police training activities. This includes trips to other law enforcement
agencies, correctional facilities, or training locations.
d. Communications- Due to potential liability and the need for prompt,
professional public service, Explorers will not be left unattended in the
radio room and Explorers will not answer the police telephone lines. This is
to prevent the Explorer from answering an emergency or high priority phone
call which would require prompt action and/or a high degree of
professionalism, training, and experience. Placing the Explorer in a
position where he/she could answer a phone call during an emergency or a
crime in progress, or involving a distraught or belligerent caller, could
jeopardize our responsibility to our community, lessen the effectiveness of
our communications abilities, and could potentially be traumatic for the
Explorer. Only authorized department employees will answer the phones. If
the call is deemed appropriate, and at the discretion of the employee
answering the call, it may be transferred to a phone staffed by an Explorer.
The Explorer will complete a complaint call, transfer it as needed, or
provide the appropriate information as needed. The Explorer will maintain a
call log, and WILL DOCUMENT the time of the call, the phone number (available
on caller-ID), and any other pertinent details. At the termination of the
call, the Explorer will share the details with the on-duty dispatcher to
ensure the call was handled appropriately. Explorers may use the police
radio at the discretion of the dispatcher, but will at no time be placed in
a position where he/she is the only person monitoring radio traffic.
Explorers will comply with the directions of the dispatcher as outlined in
Section IX, Chain of Command. Explorers will remain attentive to instruction
and will at all times provide assistance to the dispatcher as needed. Prior
to leaving duty, the Explorer will review the call log and relay any pending
details to the dispatcher.
Prohibited activities.
a. No Explorer will be assigned the task of guarding or supervising any
prisoner.
b. No Explorer will engage in undercover or covert operations.
c. No Explorer will operate a city vehicle with the exception of
training in a controlled environment.
d. No Explorer will be involved in an arrest or the physical restraint
of a suspect or prisoner.
e. No Explorer will enter any situation deemed unsafe.
f. No Explorer will attempt an arrest. His/her status as an Explorer
does not imply arrest powers.
g. Explorers will not handle or control bail monies or evidence.
h. Explorers will not equip their personal vehicles with police style
lights or sirens.
XI. MISCELLANEOUS
All Explorers are encouraged to contact the advisor concerning questions,
comments, or doubts about the post, the rules, or the activities. These
rules are subject to change.
Exploring is an important tool for the growth and development of young
adults, but other activities take priority. Under no circumstances will
participation in the post be allowed to negatively impact primary education.
For this reason, no Explorer will participate in any meeting, function, or
activity later than 2100 hours (9:00 PM) on any night preceding a school
day. Explorers are discouraged from participating in functions on days
preceding important exams or tests. Should post activities conflict with
studies, inform the advisor so adjustments may be made.
In general, Explorers will not participate in activities between 2400 hours
and 0600 hours (midnight to 6:00 am). While school is in session, Explorers
will not participate in police functions (excluding regular meetings) more
than twelve hours in a week. Explorers are limited to six hours of duty time
per day. During school vacations, holidays, and breaks, Explorers are
allowed up to 18 hours of duty time per week. This may be accomplished
through three six-hour shifts or spread over more days throughout the week so
long as the 18 hour limit is not exceeded. Explorers who are suspended from
school are prohibited from all Explorer activities with the exception of
regularly scheduled meetings.
The police department, especially the communications room, is not a hang
out. Explorers will not come to the station simply because they are “looking
for something to do”. Explorers wishing to volunteer in the communications
room will coordinate the activity with the on-duty dispatcher and will stay a
minimum of two hours. Explorers will not enter the radio room unless they
are there to work.
XII. EXPLORER LEADERS
Any Fairhope Police Department Explorer who wishes to be promoted to the rank
of Explorer Sergeant will comply with the following guidelines in addition to
the Post Rules and Regulations.
a. Explorer Sergeants will maintain a “B” average (Alabama grading
standards 80% or higher) and meet school attendance requirements. Explorer
Sergeants will provide a current report card as proof of eligibility.
b. Explorer Sergeants must maintain active status as defined in the Post
Rules and Regulations. Explorer Sergeants who are returned to probationary
status due to failure to comply with Post Rules will surrender any rank
insignia. A replacement Explorer Sergeant will be promoted.
c. Explorer Sergeants will not have any unexcused absences as defined in
the attendance section of the Post Rules and Regulations. Explorer Sergeants
will not exceed two consecutive excused absences. Explorer Sergeants with
schedule conflicts should at the very least attend the first thirty minutes
or last thirty minutes of each scheduled meeting or training event.
d. Explorer Sergeants will maintain the highest standards of appearance
while in uniform. They will be properly equipped for each meeting and
training event.
e. Explorer Sergeants will maintain the highest standards of good
conduct.
f. Explorer Sergeants will familiarize themselves with the youth leader
documents available at http://www.learningforlife.org/exploring. They will
read the Resources for Exploring Leaders, Youth Leaders Guides found through
the icon Exploring Leader Guides. While not every document found there is
applicable to our post, Explorer Sergeants should use them as a resource to
learn the skills required of a leader.
g. Explorer Sergeants will maintain copies of all training handouts.
Each Sergeant will be assigned a squad, consisting of no more than ten
Explorers. The Sergeant will provide copies to any squad member who misses a
meeting.
h. Explorer Sergeants will ensure each assigned squad member is in
uniform compliance at the beginning of each meeting or training event.
i. Explorer Sergeants will serve as liaisons between the Explorers and
the advisors.
j. Explorer Sergeants will promptly notify the advisor or officer in
charge of any activity of any rules violations or questionable circumstances.
k. Explorer Sergeants will maintain effective communication with
assigned squad members to ensure attendance.
XIII. Ride-Along Program
The national Law Enforcement Exploring program guidelines offer direction to
posts and agencies seeking to establish a ride-along program. The ride-along
program provides the Explorer with an opportunity to observe the field
activity of police. It is one element of the total Law Enforcement Explorer
program and should be well-supervised and managed judiciously. Specific ride-
along guidelines are outlined below. To ensure the Fairhope Police
Department Ride-Along program complies with national guidelines, the rules
below were taken from the national Explorer policy.
Law Enforcement Ride-Along
a. Explorers under the age of 18 are prohibited from riding after
midnight and/or during shifts that start after midnight (graveyard shift).
b. To participate in a ride-along, the Explorer must be at least 16
years of age.
c. The use of an armored vest is recommended as available on ride-
alongs.
d. The following offensive/defensive equipment use and carrying (other
than in training experiences) is prohibited: Firearms, chemical sprays, and
baton. National policy strongly recommended that Explorers do not carry
handcuffs, Fairhope policy prohibits it.
e. The qualified ride-along officer must be in a non-probationary status
and have a one-year departmental tenure in good standing.
f. The Explorer must have completed the minimum ride-along training
program, including an orientation for youth and adults on "common sense"
youth protection issues such as: actions, words, or behavior. Explorers must
understand an "at-work" professional relationship.
g. When possible, ride-alongs should be with same gender.
h. Explorers will only ride with the officer to whom he/she is assigned.
i. Explorers must be properly equipped for duty with at least a neatly
worn uniform, flashlight, pen, notebook or notepad, and appropriate weather
gear.
j. Explorers must follow the orders of the officer to whom he/she is
assigned consistent with Section V, Chain of Command.
No Law Enforcement Explorer (whether or not in uniform) should drive a marked
patrol vehicle. The exception to this policy is an authorized competition or
training activity in a controlled environment in which an adult law
enforcement official rides in the front passenger seat.
Blood borne Pathogens Policy
a. The OSHA rules for Blood borne Pathogens (29 CFR Section 1910.1030)
apply only to employees in jobs that involve "occupational exposure" to blood
borne pathogens. They do not apply to situations or posts involving
volunteers.
b. Learning for Life recommends the following in instances during which
youth and/or adults may be exposed to blood or body fluids:
1. The participating organization and its leaders should always explain
and make clear the possible degree of exposure to blood or body fluids as a
result of Exploring activities.
2. As a precaution, adult volunteers or youth participants should
consider getting a hepatitis B vaccination. The cost of the shots will not be
borne by Learning for Life, nor is the participating organization required to
underwrite the cost, however, the participating organization may arrange to
have shots given at a reduced rate, or free of charge.
3. If vaccination is recommended, any adult volunteers and youth
participants who decline the shots, either at the full cost to them, at a
reduced rate, or free, should sign the refusal waiver. A declination file
must be maintained for five years.
c. Learning for Life also recommends the following: Treat all blood as
if it were contaminated with blood borne viruses. Do not use bare hands to
stop bleeding; always use a protective barrier. Always wash exposed skin
areas with hot water and soap immediately after treating the victim. The
following pieces of equipment are to be included in all first aid kits and
used when rendering first aid to those in need:
1. Latex or vinyl gloves, to be used when stopping bleeding or dressing
wounds
2. A mouth-barrier device, for rendering rescue breathing or
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
3. Plastic goggles or other eye protection, to prevent a victim's blood
from getting into rescuer's eyes in the event of serious arterial bleeding
4. Antiseptic, for use in sterilizing or cleaning exposed skin areas,
particularly if no soap or water is available
d. In response to the national Explorer guidelines concerning blood
borne pathogens, the Fairhope Police Department and assigned Explorers will
follow these rules in connection with Explorer activities:
1. Explorers are encouraged to seek information on the risks pertaining
to exposure to bodily fluids and to obtain Hepatitis vaccination at their own
expense through their personal physician or other health care provider.
2. Explorers who decline vaccination will complete the ‘Hepatitis B
Vaccine Declination’ form. The form is available on-line or through the post
advisor. The form will be kept on file with the post.
3. No Explorer will provide first-aid or any level of medical care
without using protective measures such as gloves, face shield, goggles, etc.
Explorers will practice appropriate hygiene measures and will use hand
sanitizer after any possible exposure.
Explorer orientation.
Before ride-along involvement, the Explorer will receive orientation
consisting minimally of:
a. An understanding of the post guidelines and basic police operations
b. Familiarization with the department's geographic responsibility
c. Traffic and patrol functions
d. Communications and radio procedures
e. Common sense youth protection issues such as: actions, words, or
behavior.
f. Instruction on professional demeanor, expected conduct, required
equipment
g. Familiarization with the police vehicle and police equipment
h. Code of Conduct for police officers
Officer orientation.
The officer with whom the Explorer is scheduled to ride must be thoroughly
familiar with objectives of the Law Enforcement Explorer program, and
specifically the ride-along program. The officer should receive a copy of
these rules. The qualified ride-along officer must be in a non-probationary
status and have a one-year departmental tenure in good standing.
Duties
At all times, the duties of the Explorer will be under the direction of the
officer with whom the Explorer is riding. They may include:
a. Traffic control
b. Communications support
c. Administration of first aid
d. Assistance in crime scene security or crowd control
All duties shall be within the guidelines of the Law Enforcement Exploring
program. The Explorer should observe witnessed activities and make
appropriate notes of each encounter during his/her ride-along tour in order
to provide a debriefing of his/her experiences at the next regular law
enforcement post meeting. Explorers are observers and as such should not do
the following:
a. Assist in criminal interrogations
b. Accompany the ride-along sponsor inside any dwelling, structure, or
building except the police station or for meals while performing ride-along
missions
c. Leave the vehicle, except upon specific instructions of the officer
providing the ride-along experience
d. Assist at the scene except as specifically directed by the ride-along
officer
e. Participate in any arrest or be left to supervise or guard a detainee
or prisoner.
f. Assist in providing cover for any possible crime in progress.
The ride-along officer or designated official should debrief the Explorer
immediately after each ride-along schedule.
Schedule
a. Explorers should report for assignment 15 minutes before the shift
roll call or 15 minutes prior to the arranged pick-up time. Explorers under
the age of 18 are prohibited from riding after midnight and/or during shifts
starting after midnight (graveyard shift).
b. Post participants will not accumulate more than 12 hours of service
time per week during school or more than 18 hours of service time per week
while school is out. Explorers are limited to no more than six duty hours
per day.
c. Explorers will document all service hours in the log book maintained
in the radio room.
d. No Explorers will schedule a ride without completing a ‘Hold-Harmless
and Release Form’ and a ‘Medical Release Form’ with their parent or guardian
and having the forms notarized. The completed forms will be submitted to the
advisor to be kept on file with the post prior to ride-along participation.
The forms are available on-line or through the advisor.
Patrol Hazards/High-Risk Calls
Explorers may exit the patrol car only when deemed safe by the assigned
officer. Explorers should remain in the vehicle at any scene where a
probable hazard exists and may use the in-car police radio with the
permission of the assigned officer and in accordance with established police
procedure. If the unit receives a police dispatch involving hazards beyond
the expected scope of the ride-along, the ride may be terminated by letting
the Explorer out of the car at the police department. If the unit’s response
route does not bring them close enough to the station to allow the exit
without unnecessary delay, the Explorer will dropped off at a pre-determined
location that is safe, such as an open business where he/she can be
supervised, or the Explorer will remain in the car. Should the Explorer be
let out at a safe location or remain in the car, that fact will be relayed to
dispatch and another available officer will secure the Explorer until he/she
can be re-united with the assigned officer.
Criteria for Participating Officers
No Explorer will participate in a ride-along with any officer unless that
officer meets these minimum requirements:
a. The officer must have at least one year of full time experience as a
patrol officer with the Fairhope Police Department.
b. The officer must be approved by the advisor and Chief of Police,
taking into consideration prior disciplinary actions.
c. The ride-along must be voluntary on the part of the officer.
d. The consenting officer must receive an orientation to the Explorer
program rules and guidelines before participation.
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