<P> 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, or paramedic . </P> <P> 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 14 and 18 . When participation of those under 18 is permitted, consent from a parent or legal guardian may be required . Those with criminal records or problems on previous ride - alongs may also be barred from participation . The most common form of ride - alongs are Law Enforcement Explorers, Auxiliary or Volunteer Police officers and participants in Citizen's Police Academy programs . </P>

What is a ride along with a police officer
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