PORT ORCHARD — The Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for volunteers who wish to help improve the quality of life for citizens.

The Citizens On Patrol program offers volunteers the opportunity to interact with the community, enforce handicap parking regulations, help with boat inspections, conduct security and vacation checks on homes, and be the eyes and ears of law enforcement.

Volunteers also are trained to assist with traffic control, mark and process abandoned vehicles on county right-of-way, and perform junk vehicle VIN inspections. Program volunteers work in teams of two, according to the sheriff’s office. Training, uniforms and vehicles are provided.

Volunteers must be able to pass extensive criminal and credit background checks, including a polygraph exam, have an excellent driving record and commit to a minimum of 16 hours per month and two-hour monthly training sessions and meetings for at least a year.

For information about volunteer opportunities and to apply to the COP program, contact Kitsap County Volunteer Services at 360-337-4650.