BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WBRC ) - Birmingham Fire and Rescue is helping train the next generation of first responders through its long-running Explorer Program.

The department launched the program in the 1990s. For more than 20 years, it’s given high school and college students a chance to learn what it takes to serve in emergency response roles while also building valuable life skills.

The Explorers meet twice a month and receive hands-on training in firefighting, EMS procedures, and other public safety skills.

15-year-old Miracle Amberes said the program gave her a head start on her dream of becoming a firefighter.

“I wanted to be a firefighter since I was four,” Amberes said. “Just knowing that I could help my community, I can help people be safe in a world like this.”

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