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Ride-Along / Observer Program

Benton County Fire District #2 – Washington State

Purpose

Benton County Fire District #2, located in Washington State, encourages community involvement through our Ride-Along / Observer Program. This program offers community members and student interns the opportunity to observe fire and EMS operations firsthand and gain insight into the responsibilities of emergency services personnel.

Eligibility

  • Must be 16 years of age or older.
  • Must have no physical limitations that could pose safety risks.
  • Participants under 18 require a parent/guardian signature and must be affiliated with a sponsoring agency or program (e.g., job shadowing, fire/EMS class, career training).
  • All participants must list an affiliate contact when submitting their application.

Out-of-state participants are not eligible.

How to Apply

  • Click on one of the application links at the bottom of this page to complete the Ride-Along Agreement and Waiver or the Citizen Ride-Along Waiver.
  • Forms must be submitted at least five (5) business days prior to the requested date.
  • All applications require pre-approval by the Fire Chief or designee.
  • Approved participants will receive a safety briefing before their scheduled ride-along.

Ride-Along Hours & Frequency

  • Available Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Not available on weekends or holidays.
  • No overnight stays allowed.
  • Frequency is limited based on participant type:
    • General Public: 1 ride-along every 6 months.
    • Emergency Service Personnel: Up to 4 per year.
    • College Mentorship: Up to 4 per year.
    • EMS Students: Based on program requirements.

Exceptions may be made for educational or training purposes at the District’s discretion.

Observer Guidelines

  • Participants act as observers only, unless directed otherwise by a firefighter/EMS provider.
  • Observers may not enter hazardous scenes (e.g., fires, violent incidents, crime scenes).
  • EMS students may perform limited skills only under direct supervision, in accordance with their training program.
  • Ride-alongs must follow the directions of the assigned crew and comply with all safety, conduct, and confidentiality policies.

Dress Code

  • Clothing must be clean, professional, and non-distracting.
  • Recommended: Dark pants, light plain shirt, closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred).
  • Prohibited: Open-toe shoes, shorts, tank tops, offensive graphics, excessive jewelry.
  • Hair must be secured if long.
  • Outside agency and student uniforms may be worn with prior approval.

Rules of Conduct

  • No weapons, drugs, or alcohol (including marijuana) before or during the ride-along.
  • Seat belts must be worn at all times.
  • No photography or recording allowed on incident scenes.
  • Participants must carry a valid photo ID.
  • Patient confidentiality must be maintained at all times.
  • No tobacco use in vehicles or fire stations.
  • Participants must bring their own meals or arrange a buy-in with the crew.

Ready to Apply?

To begin your application, please select the appropriate link below.

You must list an affiliate contact as part of your submission.

  1. Ride-Along Agreement and Waiver
  2. Citizen Ride-Along Waiver

If you have questions about the application process or your eligibility, please contact the Fire District Administration Office.