What to Bring (and What Not to) for a Columbia County Sheriff’s Ride-Along
A ride-along goes smoothly when you show up prepared — right paperwork, valid ID, and nothing that could create a safety issue. Use the checklist below so you don't get turned away or held up at check-in.
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- ✓ A positive, government-issued photo ID (you’ll need it at the time of the ride-along)
- ✓ Your completed ride-along application, including the waiver/release/indemnification paperwork (it must be completed and returned before you ride)
- ✓ Clothing that looks professional and neutral (see the clothing section below for what’s not allowed)
- ✓ No weapons of any type (including mace/pepper spray, batons/clubs, or stun guns/Tasers) unless you’ve been preapproved by the watch commander
- ✓ Leave prohibited gear at home: handcuffs, radios, scanners, and any audio/video recording equipment (unless preapproved by the watch commander)
- ✓ Be ready to immediately and fully follow the deputy’s orders in an emergency
You'll be out in public with a deputy, so dress the part. Columbia County's program is specific about what's not allowed: sweatshirts, shorts, T‑shirts, ripped or torn clothing, and anything with obscene slogans. When in doubt, go clean, neutral, and professional-looking. Don't let a wardrobe choice stop you at check-in.
Leave anything that could be considered a weapon or tactical tool at home. During the ride-along, you can't have weapons of any type - and that includes items people sometimes forget "count," like mace/pepper spray, batons or clubs, and stun guns (Tasers). Handcuffs, radios, scanners, and any audio/video recording equipment are also off-limits. The only exception? Preapproval from the watch commander. If you haven't gotten that ahead of time, don't bring it.
Note: These restrictions exist for safety and to protect how calls are handled. If you have a special need for a prohibited item, reach out for watch commander preapproval before your scheduled ride-along.
Once you're riding, follow the deputy's lead. Stay in the patrol vehicle unless a deputy tells you otherwise. Don't handle or use any of the deputy's equipment or anything in the vehicle - even if it's within arm's reach. It's restricted for security and safety reasons.
The waiver matters. By signing, you're waiving and releasing the County and Sheriff's Office from liability for injuries, damages, or losses related to your participation - and agreeing to indemnify them. If an emergency happens during the ride-along, your job is simple: immediately and fully comply with all orders from the deputy.
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