You’ve probably seen them around town in their familiar yellow or blue jackets — volunteers for the Lynnwood Police Department donating their time and talents.

Last year those volunteers logged nearly 21,000 hours — an increase of 19 percent over 2008, according to a new report. That’s the equivalent of 10 full-time employees, an especially valuable contribution in this time of budget struggles.

“Their efforts and dedication greatly assist Lynnwood police officers in their service to the community.  The volunteers are an integral and vital component of community policing,” Police Chief Steve Jensen said.

The 100 volunteers in the Crime Prevention office are divided into two main groups — Volunteers in Public Safety and Citizens Patrol.

Last year Citizens Patrol volunteers responded to more than 600 assistance calls for car lock-outs, transports and jump-starts, an increase of 24 percent from 2008. They also helped enforce disabled parking laws, directed traffic, did car seat inspections and processed false alarms.

Volunteers in Public Safety, many of whom are retired, do home vacation checks, provide clerical support and generally are extra eyes and ears for officers.

Click here to learn more about volunteering with the Lynnwood Police Department.

Photos courtesy of the Lynnwood Police Department.