ESCONDIDO, Calif. -- The Escondido Police Department is taking steps to improve communication between officers and the more than 60,000 Latinos who live in the city.

Being one of 29 bilingual officers, out of the 165 sworn officers in Escondido, can make for a busy day.

Growing up speaking Spanish has made police Officer Marco Sevilla a valuable asset to the force.

"Being able to be self-sufficient when handling a call, as opposed to having to call a second officer, which might be taking them away from something else he or she might be doing," said Sevilla.

Now, the department is offering free Spanish language classes four nights a week at Escondido's adult school.

"I think anything that can add efficiency to the way we operate and the service we provide to the community is a huge benefit," said Sevilla.

The department is hoping half of its officers take the classes, and as an incentive, bilingual officers will receive a monthly $200 bonus.

So far, 30 officers have volunteered.

"Officers can get info more quickly and get that info out," said Sevilla.

Currently, if a translator is unavailable, officers make do as best they can.

"They will use neighbors or other family members, whatever resources possible," said Sevilla.

But in an emergency situation, every second can count, so better communication will mean a safer and happier community.