Regional Explosives Detection Dog Initiative - REDDI

Описание: In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate’s (S&T) Detection Canine Program established the Regional Explosives Detection Dog Initiative (REDDI) to help provide state and local law enforcement end-users with the tools, techniques and knowledge to better understand, train and deploy detection canines. To the dog, it’s just one big game. Find the target odor and receive the reward. To us, it’s the satisfaction of knowing we are safe because highly-trained explosives detection dogs are at work with their handlers. Canines are widely recognized as one of the best, most versatile mobile explosive detection tools available for protecting the homeland from explosive threats, and the use of explosives detection canines is expanding.

Operational search exercises are an important part of ensuring canines stay proficient in recognizing the odors they are trained to detect. Other REDDI highlights include classroom elements providing an overview of explosives and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) with a focus on the domestic threat, and best practices for maintenance training and training aid storage and handling. Participants receive real-time feedback on their performance results which helps validate their strengths as well as inform any focus areas. Through REDDI, S&T can help canine teams discover whether their training is matching their operational demands.

To date, 16 REDDI events have been held, supporting 226 detection canine teams encompassing 92 jurisdictions from Florida to Connecticut to California. A typical REDDI event is hosted in a region where several nearby local law enforcement agencies can easily participate and benefit. The multi-jurisdictional nature of this format provides a networking opportunity between canine handlers from different agencies, and feedback from participants suggests this is a valuable element as they compare notes with each other on potential challenges and solutions.