June 23, 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2016-19)
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
R. Steve Huffman
Public Information Officer
(251) 208-7163/Fax: (251) 208-5843
E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org
USAR ALABAMA TASK FORCE ONE CANINE TEAM PASSES EVALUATION
Debra Wright, a civilian team member of Alabama Task Force One Urban, Search and Rescue (US&R) Team, and her lab Chance, passed a very rigorous test on Saturday, June 18th in Tennessee. They were evaluated by the US&R Foundation ( Canine Evaluators) for a recertification Type I Canine test in which they passed. Both FEMA and State Urban Search and Rescue Teams have certified canine and handler teams which are a key element in supporting search operations.
Mrs. Wright had to pass the certification by showing her knowledge in search strategies and tactics, mapping, search and victim markings, briefing and debriefing skills, in addition to canine handling skills.
Chance’s part of the test included proper command control, agility skills, a focused bark alert to indicate a live find, and a willingness to persist to search for live victims in spite of distractions such as other animals, food, excessive heat, and noise. Chance also had to show he is confident enough to search independently and must be able to negotiate slippery surfaces, balance on wobbly objects underneath his feet and go through dark spaces.
The team tests on two large rubble piles for an unknown number of victims, implementing all of their knowledge, skills and abilities acquired from years of training.
Teams that pass this training are some of the most highly trained canine resources in the country. Alabama Task Force 1, sponsored by Mobile Fire-Rescue, City of Mobile, and the State Of Alabama, are the only ones in the State of Alabama with this resource and capability. In fact Alabama Task Force 1 has certified canines in both Live and Human Remains which less than 30 teams in the country have.
Mrs. Wright and Chance train weekly and have even responded with Mobile Fire-Rescue to certain incidents in which they were requested. All training and local responses are on a volunteer bases which shows their dedication to what they love.
Congratulations Mrs. Wright and Chance!
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