Drowned Victim Search Dogs ..... Cont'd
It has been demonstrated in live searches, that by using a DVS dog
with its remarkable scenting ability, it is possible to effect a significant
saving in man hours during water searches, not to mention the stress reduction
for bereaved families, waiting for the return of their lost loved ones.
It can be shown that one DVS dog, can search an area of water extending to 1
kilometre square in approximately 1hour, with an accuracy of about 90% to 95%
in the first sweep. Given the vagaries of wind and current, 100% accuracy in
one search may be difficult to achieve, but a second sweep will increase even
this very high detection rate. The dogs are trained to search for the scent of
decay which, having risen to the water surface, is then carried along the surface
by the wind. When the scent source has been located, the dog will indicate its
location by barking.
Neil and John recently conducted a seminar on behalf of the National Search and Rescue Dog Association (NSARDA)of the United Kingdom and of Ireland,
to introduce delegates to the complexities of this highly specialised work.
The course was so well received by all who attended, that they were next asked by NSARDA
to produce a set of training and assessment standards for the DVSD. These standards have
now been presented and accepted by the National body and will assure the highest levels
of competence to all those who successfully complete them. Fern, to date has located the
bodies of two teenagers in a lake in County Down and that of a man in a river in County
Meath. The bodies were later recovered from the locations indicated by civilian dive
teams.