SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE k-9 ASSOCIATION

Building Search

This test is designed to be simulative of a working situation. Three (3) basic types of buildings are selected and described for use on this test. The certifying official will accompany the team to observe the entire test, as could happen when a backup officer or superior officer would accompany the canine team during an actual search. Officer survival tactics will be used. The handler’s weapon will be cleared by certifying official before beginning this test. No live ammunition will be carried on the handler's person. The controlled apprehension certification must be passed before attempting this certification.

Building Types

1)                 Residential dwellings

2)                 Warehouse, armory, barn, open areas within the building

3)                 School, hotel, office building, multi-room interior

4)                 Buildings or search area shall be a minimum of 2,000 sq. ft with multiple rooms. 

Suspect

1)                 Will be hidden at least ten (10) minutes prior to the test starting.

2)                 Will be hidden in a place of concealment, which is not visible to the canine and handler.

3)                 Will wear protective sleeve if necessary for protection.

4)                 Whenever possible, will be a person unknown to the canine, and not normally used in training with the canine.

5)                 Should be brought into the building be way of a different route than that to be used by the canine and handler.

6)                 Will be placed in concealment no more than fifteen (15) feet height.  

Certifying Official

1)                 Will designate the area of the building to be used for the test.

2)                 Will designate the area in which the team is to begin their search.

3)                 Will accompany the team into the building and must be able to observe the test. The Certifying official should make every effort not to interfere with the test, and should confer with the handler to reach an agreement as how not to disturb the canine work, follow behind and observe from doorways, ladder, etc.

4)                 When it is obvious to the certifying official that the canine is not searching for the suspect, the certifying official will inform the handler of the failure for this test.

5)                 Will clear the handlers weapon before the test starts and make sure the handler has no live ammunition on his/her person.

Handler

1)                 This test may be done on or off leash. Equipment normally used in an actual situation should be used.

2)                 The handler will accompany the canine throughout the test, and may encourage his/her canine with commands and praise as needed.

3)                 In NO case will the handler open any doors that are closed within his/her search area. Rooms with open doors should be searched thoroughly.

4)                 The canine indication of the find of the suspect must be obvious to the certifying official. If the canine indicates that the suspect is behind a closed door, the handler will call the suspect out.

 All tests given the canine team will be on pass/fail basis. The certifying officials will determine if the team will be certified upon the completion of the test. The handler and canine will be considered as a team and it is the team who will be certified. If the canine changes handlers, a new team exists and the team will need to be certified.

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Last modified: 05/30/07