 | The examples and perspective in this article deal primarily with the United States and do not represent a worldwide view of the subject. (August 2023) |
A ride-along is an arrangement for a civilian to spend a shift in the passenger seat of an emergency vehicle, observing the work day of a police officer, firefighter, paramedic, or security.
Ride-alongs are offered by many police departments around the world. There is a minimum age to participate in a ride-along. Depending on the department, it is often somewhere between the ages of 12 and 18. When participation of those under 18 is permitted, consent from a parent or legal guardian is required. People with criminal records or under investigation under any law enforcement agencies are prohibited from participation. People who also have problems with previous ride alongs may also be denied. When citizens are selected for a ride along they must read and sign a waiver stating the rules and expectations while participating in the ride along with agreeing that situation can turn dangerous at any time. The most common form of ride-alongs are Law Enforcement Explorers, Auxiliary or Volunteer Police officers and participants in Citizen's Police Academy programs.
People go on ride-alongs for various reasons. These include interest in a future career in law enforcement, personal interest in law enforcement officers without such a career, journalists wishing to write reports, and those interested in community relations. Some emergency departments require dispatchers to go on ride-alongs so they can get a first-hand feel for the area they are responsible for. Regardless of the reason, all citizens who meet the department's eligibility requirements are generally welcome on a ride-along.
The television show Cops is made with a variety of police ride-alongs put into a half-hour segment.