The California High Patrol is recruiting dozens of senior volunteers in North County to fill a variety of public safety roles.
“We are looking for senior volunteers ages 55 years or older who are in good physical condition,” said Officer Jim Bettencourt, spokesman for the CHP office in Vista. “Doing some of the extra details that sometimes would take an officer off of the beat.”
In addition to administrative tasks, volunteers assist with community events, DUI checkpoints and neighborhood patrols.
“They’re going to be driving in a black-and-white California Highway Patrol vehicle that has the volunteer logo on the side, and have the ability to be our on-view patrol out around some of our school areas,” Bettencourt said.
“If there’s anything that they see, they can put it out on the radio to the officers and we’ll respond,” he added.
Senior volunteers are always paired up, Bettencourt said, and they’re required to attend a week-long training academy before their work begins.
Volunteers also must pass a background check and have a good driving record.
“They must be interested in public safety, service, willing to volunteer their talents, and just willing to adhere to our standards and expectations,” Bettencourt said.
Those interested can pick up an application at the CHP office in Vista at 435 La Tortuga Drive.
