Community connection
See your community from the passenger seat.
A ride-along with the Polson Police Department offers a firsthand look at the people, responsibilities, and everyday work behind the badge. Learn how officers serve our community and ask questions about their work.
Download Citizen Observer Agreement (.doc)Original Police Department form, including the waiver and signature sections.
What to expect
The Citizen Ride Program helps community members become familiar with department operations, personnel, and duties. Officers will try to answer your questions when their responsibilities allow. You are there as an observer; the officer directs your participation throughout the ride.
Police work can be unpredictable and involves risk. Read the full agreement before signing, and ask the department about anything you do not understand. A ride may end early if an emergency requires it.
How to request a ride
- Download and read the agreement. Review the observer rules and the waiver of liability.
- Contact the Police Department. Ask about eligibility, available dates, ride length, and how to return your completed form. For a minor, confirm age requirements and parent or guardian signatures with the department.
- Complete the required information. The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, requested ride date and time, and signatures. Follow the department’s instructions for the witness and officer sections.
- Confirm your arrangements before arriving. Ask where to meet, what to wear, and what identification to bring. Downloading or completing the form does not confirm a ride.
Rules to know before you go
- Read and sign the waiver of liability before your ride.
- No audio or video recording devices are permitted.
- Citizen observers may not carry concealed or unconcealed weapons. The agreement allows an exception for sworn peace officers only with shift-supervisor authorization.
- Do not participate in calls, responses, or investigations unless directed by the sworn officer.
- Conduct yourself appropriately and follow the officer’s instructions.
- Respect the public’s privacy. Keep what you see and hear confidential.
- Officers will not pick up observers at their homes. Confirm where to meet before your ride.
- The officer may end the ride during an emergency. Violating the policy may end your ride and future participation.
This is a summary of the supplied Citizen Observer Agreement. Read the complete form and follow the Police Department’s instructions.