Disaster Canine Search Specialist Categories

Disaster Canine Search Specialist Certification Exam and
Disaster Human Remains Detection Canine Search Specialist Certification Exam

The Disaster Canine Search Specialist (Disaster CSS or Disaster HRD CSS) is designed to identify the minimum knowledge, skills, and experience needed by an individual and their canine partner to work effectively during disaster search operations.  These examinations recognize the need for further training.  Certificates will be issued for all of these examinations.

The AERIE Disaster Canine Search Specialists Exam will be defined as follows:

• Disaster CSS  – Level 2 Live:  Search for, detect and identify the location of live human scent in failed medium frame structures and natural debris fields. Two targets, bark alert required, restricted access until first alert. (FEMA FSA)
• Disaster CSS– Level 3 Live:  Search for, detect and identify the location of live human scent in failed light frame structures and natural debris fields. Two targets, 40% of pile is restricted access.
• Disaster CSS – Level 1 HRD: Search for, detect and identify the location of human remains in failed heavy frame structures and natural debris fields. Two targets at 15 to 30 grams, 40% of pile is restricted access, final response at source is required. (Required association with SUSAR/Regional Task Force)
• Disaster CSS – Level 2 HRD: Search for, detect and identify the location of human remains in failed medium and light frame structures and natural debris fields. Two targets at 15 to 30 grams, 40% of pile is restricted access, final response at source is required.
• Disaster CSS – Level 3 HRD: Search for, detect and identify the location of human remains in failed light frame structures and natural debris fields. Two targets 30 to 50 grams, 40% of pile is restricted access.

Rubble test includes:  3,500 – 5,000 sq foot pile with average height of 10 feet predominantly consists of concrete or a mixture of materials common to disaster sites, two targets, 15 minutes

Disaster Canine Search Specialist Examination Elements (See full exam information here)

The examination elements will be as described in the Canine Search Specialist Certification Annex to the National US&R Response System Operations Manual (May 2010).

The only adjustments will be in Element 2 – Alert Station and Element 5 – Rubble Station.

Notes on Final Responses:

• In disaster search, a strong, independent trained final response is required.  A strong bark is the only alert method that can be recognized from out-of-sight and is highly recommended for all Types.  If using another behavior, the final response behavior must be a behavior which is easily identifiable by a general observer (sit, down).  For safety reasons, a find/refind with a body bump at the handler is not acceptable.
• A trained final response (alert) will be required for all levels.  Final responses allowed by level are:
  • Disaster CSS – Level II Live:  Focused bark at target
  • Disaster CSS – Level III Live:  Focused bark at target or find/refind with trained behavior at handler  (excluding a bump)
  • Disaster CSS – Level I HRD: Focused bark or trained behavior at target
  • Disaster CSS – Level II HRD: Focused bark or trained behavior at target
  • Disaster CSS – Level III HRD; Find/refind with trained behavior at handler (excluding a bump)