South Gate Police Explorers to Assist Officers at 4th of July Event

The South Gate Police Explorers program will be out helping out the officers with some of their duties during the highly visited South Gate Park 4th of July carnival event. The explorers, whose ages range from 14 to 20, are trained to handle some basic non-sworn police work, which can be very helpful to officers during large crowd situations, especially. 

“They will work with police officers at the park,” said Lieutenant Jim Teeples, the officer in charge of the program within the South Gate Police Department (SGPD). “They are going to be an important element in participating with the community.”

The explorers is a work-based volunteer program that allows young people with an interests in police work to get an introduction for what being a law enforcement officer is.  Candidates become explorers after undergoing academic coursework and physical training at the basic explorer academy.

One of the largest responsibilities that the SGPD faces while policing the event is the effective management of all types of traffic.

“Traffic control is the largest issue,” said Captain Keith Hupp of the SGPD. “The firework show is 20 minutes, but it can take an hour to get everyone out safely.”

The explorers, who are trained in crowd and traffic control and in providing light security at events, will provide support for the staff of police officers at the South Gate park 4th of July carnival celebration.

“They will police officers who need them to help out with the holding of parking spots,” confirmed Lt. Teeples. “They will also assist with crowds, VIP’s, and seating.”

For more information on the explorers program clich here. 

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