On Monday, Feb. 26, 2018, the Washington State Patrol Homeland Security Division is beginning an Explosive Detection K9 class where new K9’s and handlers come together and receive training.
Through the course, the prospective K9 officers and their handlers will complete over 400 hours of training prior to certifying as a new explosive detection team. The Washington State Patrol often hosts other agencies in its K9 training academy. Included in this course are troopers from the Oregon State Patrol, as well as a deputy from the King County Sheriff’s Department.
“The Washington State Patrol has one of the largest non-federal K9 training programs in the country,” Troopers said in a statement. “The WSP prides itself on training its K9 handlers and K9 partners in a way that is both productive and fun. As the K9’s progress through training, it is meant to be a fun environment for them, teaching them their new job is full of their favorite rewards as well as praise and plenty of pats on the head for a job well done!”
Once the WSP explosive detection teams are certified, they will be deployed to one of three regions surrounding the Washington State Ferry terminals throughout Western Washington.
“It is there that handlers and K9s will reach their full potential and call to duty in order to screen vehicles prior to sailing across our state’s water ways.”
Not only will the K9 teams screen vehicles, they will work to keep terminals and vessels secure. K9 teams are often called to locations throughout the state in order to conduct searches where an explosive threat has been received.
“The value these K9 teams offer and the service they provide is exceptional.”