Purpose

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

Eligibility

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must have no physical limitations that could pose a safety risk during emergency response operations.
• Out-of-state participants are not eligible.

How to Apply

• Complete the Ride-Along Program — Assumption of Risk, Waiver, and Release of Claims form.
• Forms must be submitted at least five (5) business days prior to the requested ride date.
• All applications require pre-approval by the Fire Chief or designee.
• Approved participants will receive a safety briefing before their scheduled ride-along.
• A copy of a valid photo ID is required at the time of participation.

Ride-Along Hours & Frequency

• Available Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Not available on weekends or holidays.
• No overnight stays permitted.
• Frequency is limited based on participant type:
  • General Public: 1 ride-along every 6 months.
  • Emergency Services 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

• All participants serve as civilian observers only and may not engage in any emergency, firefighting, or medical activity at any time.
• Participants are under the complete authority of the fire officer in charge throughout the duration of the ride.
• Observers may not enter hazardous scenes including but not limited to active fires, violent incidents, or crime scenes.
• EMS students may perform limited skills only under direct supervision and in accordance with their training program requirements.
• All participants must comply with crew directions and all BCFPD 2 safety, conduct, and confidentiality policies.

Dress Code

• Clothing must be clean, professional, and non-distracting.
• Recommended: Dark pants, plain light-colored shirt, closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred).
• Prohibited: Open-toe shoes, shorts, tank tops, offensive graphics, and excessive jewelry.
• Long hair must be secured.
• 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 while in the vehicle.
• No photography or recording is permitted on incident scenes.
• Patient confidentiality must be maintained at all times in accordance with HIPAA.
• No tobacco use in vehicles or at fire stations.
• Participants must bring their own meals or arrange a buy-in with the crew in advance.

Ready to Apply?

Complete the contact form below to request a Ride-Along application. A member of our team will follow up to confirm eligibility and provide next steps.

If you have questions about the application process or your eligibility, please contact the Fire District Administration Office at 509-588-3212.