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Sheriff’s Department Participates In ‘Canine Week’

Nearly 50 explosive detection canine teams from across the state, nation and federal government participated in scenario-based training recently at the inaugural ‘Canine Week’ exercise at the State Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany.

The first-time event helped canine teams practice their response to a variety of real-world scenarios involving explosives and explosive devices. The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Dept. was among the agencies participating.

“Explosive detection canine teams and their specialized skill set play a vital role in responding to and resolving some of the most dangerous threats faced by law enforcement,” said Patrick A. Murphy, Acting New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services commissioner.

“This week’s exercise gives these teams an opportunity to test their capabilities through advanced, innovative training exercises by utilizing the numerous features of New York’s world-class State Preparedness Training Center.”

New York’s more than 300 law enforcement explosive detection canine teams are primarily responsible for conducting searches for explosive materials near building exteriors, parking lots, office areas, vehicles and infrastructure sites, as well as mass gathering events.

Many of the canines participating also serve in dual-purpose roles by providing detection capabilities and protection for officers on patrol.

During the exercise, canine teams responded to a series of complex and evolving incidents to test their capabilities.

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, which developed and managed ‘Canine Week,’ modeled scenarios after real-world incidents that canine teams encounter, including operating out of a helicopter during an emergency response, integrating with tactical teams during complex service calls, detecting explosives in a maritime environment and dignitary protection details. Teams also practiced their skills to provide emergency care to injured canines during the week.

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