The Charlotte Fire Investigation Task Force is home to one of approximately 74 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms certified Accelerant Detector Canines in the United States. Canine Titan became part of the Task Force in December 2006, replacing Canine Manly.

 

Accelerant Detection Canine - TITAN!

Titan is a two-year old black Labrador Retriever who was raised in the "Puppies Behind Bars Program".  For more information on the "Puppies Behind Bars Program", please visit the website at www.puppiesbehindbars.com.

At one year of age, Titan was chosen to participate in the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Accelerant Detector Canine Program in Front Royal, Virginia.  While in Front Royal, Titan went through 16 weeks of training, 10 weeks with the BATF Trainers and then the last 6 weeks with his handler.  In December 2006, he and his handler, Investigator Dwayne Davis, graduated and were certified as an Accelerant Detector Canine Team.

Titan has been trained to search and alert to the presence of ignitable liquids in fire scenes.  Using the canine allows investigators to search larger areas in a shorter amount of time.  Titan is a tool used by the Task Force and, like all equipment, he mus be maintained in good working condition.  Titan lives with Investigator Davis and his family, he is trained and fed every day.

Titan and his handler are tested and re-certified annually by the training staff and chemists from the BATF.

Titan is the fourth Accelerant Detection Canine that has served the Charlotte Fire Investigation Task Force.   Canine Raider served with his handler, Investigator Tim Jonas from 1992 to 1998.  Canine Wendt served with his handler, Investigator Paul Wilkinson from 1999 to 2004.  Canine Manly served with his handler, Investigator Gary Styers from 2004 to 2005.

Titan outside of Fire and LIfe Safety's Smoke House.