For young men and women considering a career in fire rescue and emergency services, the Cadet Program at BSO affords practical training and experience through education, community involvement and public service. Primarily geared to middle and high school students, fire rescue cadets are introduced to fire fighting and rescue techniques through a regimented course-of-instruction based on teamwork and responsibility.

Emphasizing personal accountability, discipline and respect for chain-of-command, the program features training in fire suppression, first aid and CPR, apparatus use, emergency medical response, mitigation of hazardous materials and other areas. Cadets can experience the responsibilities of first responders through the Ride-Along program as they accompany fire fighters and paramedics on actual emergency calls.

Weekly meetings offer cadets instruction and real-life experience alongside professional fire fighters and rescue personnel. The program emphasizes community involvement: cadets participate in a variety of educational and public service projects that benefit Broward County citizens, and help build confidence and self-esteem among cadet ranks.

To qualify for membership, candidates must be between the ages of 14 and 17 and maintain satisfactory grades in school. Candidates must have the approval and cooperation of a parent or guardian.

Electronic Fire Rescue Cadet Application -- We are not currently accepting applications.

Contact the Fire Rescue Cadet Program

Fire Rescue Cadet Duties

Fire Cadets will be required to attend a regular weekly meeting (on occasional weekends), BSO Fire Rescue Cadets participate in a variety of educational, service and personal development projects.

Public Safety

Upon successful completion of a three-month probation period consisting of attending meetings and events as well as taking a variety of classes in emergency medicine and fire. Cadets will also take HIPPA and Blood borne pathogens, CPR and AED training.

Community Involvement and Service

Cadets provide citizenship to their communities by developing and participating in organized community service campaigns; many of these activities fulfill Broward County School Board community service hours requirements. Fire Cadets will be required to attend a minimum of one (1) community service event per month.

Fire Prevention

Cadets accompany fire prevention bureau personnel on safety inspections and community education projects to increase awareness of fire prevention.

Goal Setting

Cadets are encouraged and supported in the pursuit of educational excellence and must meet strict minimum educational requirements set forth by program guidelines.