To be considered for cadet post admission candidates shall be at least 14 years of age (and have completed the eighth grade) and not yet 21 years of age.
The cadet post advisor manages the admission of candidates into the cadet post. Normally, cadet candidates (and a guardian if the candidate is under 18 years of age) meet with the post advisor and schedule an orientation visit to a fire station during regular business hours. Orientation visits by candidates should normally be limited to no more than three visits to the post.
Upon being offered admission to the post, the candidate will complete the formal application process. The cadet application, insurance, and waiver documents will be completed by the applicant (and signed by a guardian if the candidate is under 18 years of age). The application packet will be reviewed and approved by the cadet advisor and then forwarded to the cadet program coordinator for final processing prior to final approval and participation.
Upon final approval of the application, the post advisor will be notified and the candidate will be considered to be a cadet. Cadets are admitted to the post for the balance of the calendar year. Upon recommendation of the post advisor, cadets may reapply for successive calendar years until they reach 21 years of age.
On the cadet's 21st birthday, the cadet is considered to be an adult. Participation in the cadet program as a cadet will be discontinued and the cadet will "retire." Continued participation with the cadet program may occur in instances when the former cadet is approved to serve as an associate program advisor (for adult volunteers) or as a member of the LAFD's volunteer program.
Discontinuation of cadet status may also occur upon mutual agreement between the cadet and the post advisor, or by request of the cadet or the post advisor.
Cadets should understand that participation in the LAFD Cadet Program is considered to be voluntary. The LAFD reserves the right to discontinue a cadets participation in the program at any time that a valid basis for such discontinuation arises. Disciplinary issues and program discontinuations will be discussed with the cadet or his or her guardian if the cadet is under 18 years of age, and with the cadet program advisor.
To become a cadet, start by locating the post closet to your place of residence, contact the post advisor, and schedule a meeting.