HRD K9 OPS 

Saturday: Day Two - Incident Operations and Logistics for HRD K9 Deployments

Arriving at an actual command post for a search can be a challenging experience. The operational period on Saturday is designed to give each handler practice and experience with the logistics of such deployments. Handlers will receive assistance on:

• Signing in/out using QR codes.

• Mapping their search progress in pre-assigned search areas.

• Effectively utilizing Caltopo/Sartopo for K9 deployments.

• “Dropping pins” and taking pictures of “clues” on mapping software.

• Calling in GPS coordinates during a search.

• Avoiding becoming lost themselves.

• Uploading search mapping data to ICS, etc.

This mock exercise will mimic real-life deployments. Handlers and flankers will work blind scenarios and report their search findings back to the command post.

It is expected and highly recommended that participants with GPS-enabled K9 collars practice using that mapping technology as well.

There will be two operational periods for HRD K9 deployments on Day Two (Saturday):

• Session 1: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Session 2: 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Participants will register for either Session 1 or Session 2. Assignments will be based on the number of participants pre-registered for the exercise. Should fewer handlers register for the event, there is a possibility that participants may take part in both operational periods. Each handler can expect up to two hours to cover their assigned area in each operational period.

Please bring a flanker, as they will not be provided.

Friday Night Meeting:
There will be a meeting on Friday night to cover details, equipment, and expectations for the exercise.

• Before the meeting, please download Caltopo to your mobile device (instructors are most familiar with iPhones).

• Bring your GPS collars and all equipment needed for an actual deployment, including water, medical supplies, and any other gear you deem necessary.

Saturday Check-In:
Handlers will check in at the HRD K9 Mobile Incident Command Trailer with Dr. Lisa Briggs, Detective Edwin Grant, and other IC communications personnel at their pre-registered operational period to receive their search assignments.

Each operational period will accommodate up to 10 handlers deploying their Human Remains Detection K9s. All participants must be pre-registered for their session, and all K9s must be at “deployment status” (no beginners). This exercise is a realistic deployment focused on human remains recovery and is not suitable for less advanced K9s.

The location of the IC for Saturday will be provided during registration and discussed at the HRD K9 session on Friday night.