Since 1993, the State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) has called on man's "best friend" to help in its investigations. Canine teams help determine the presence of ignitable liquids, such as gasoline, at fire scenes.
How many dogs help SFMO handlers detect substances that may have been used to start or spread fires?
Five dogs live with their respective handlers, who live in different parts of Texas to be ready to investigate the origin of a fire or explosion at short notice.
What kinds of dogs are in the accelerant detection canine unit?
Four Belgian Malinois and a German Shepherd.
What can the dogs detect?
SFMO’s dogs are trained on 14 different odors associated with causes of a house fire. The dogs also will react to over 60 different common commercially available items.
Do the dogs bark when they sniff out a suspicious chemical?
No. Sometimes they gaze at the source of the smell. Other times, depending on training, they put their nose on a spot and keep it there.
Learn more:
Dog burned in fire now helps state investigate fires
Fire Investigations Division Accelerant Detection Canine Unit