2.13 Potential and operating methods of the dog units (molecular dogs) and trace preservation mode

• Human Fragrance

Dogs have an excellent sense of smell and can detect human scent even after a long period of time.

Every Volunteer Rescuer, regardless of his/her specialization and the specific role and duties he/she may have as a member of the Search and Rescue Team, should be familiar with the process of collecting samples, as well as the process of taking biological material from the missing person’s environment.

The process of collecting samples, the process of copying them and the process of obtaining biological material shall be carried out promptly, correctly, and safely. Usually, the first two volunteers available are the ones who will be sent to the missing person’s environment – accompanied or not by the police – and in the presence of a family member, in order to collect and secure objects with which the missing person has had direct contact in the last hours or to collect biological material from these objects.

This process is vital to the progress of the investigation if Special Scented Detection Dogs are used immediately or at later stages – depending on the circumstances.

Human scent includes several elements which can be useful in training and mobilising detection dogs. These may include:

• Dead cells left behind by humans at a rate of about 40,000 cells per minute.
• Odors due to perspiration. Sweat consists mainly of water, minerals and fatty acids which, when excreted, also mix with skin bacteria.
• Hormones (Epinephrine, Insulin, Cortisol, Estrogen, Estrogen, Resistin, Prolactin (PRL), Testosterone and Adrenaline).
• Cells and Bacteria released through exhalation and Bacteria released from the mouth, skin and into tissues.

The bacterial composition of humans is as unique as DNA and fingerprints and it is thought that for every 1 human cell, there are approximately 10 bacterial cells.Research shows that there are more than 700 different types of bacteria on our tongue, lips, cheeks, and throat alone.

In addition, human scent can come from the secretory activity of sweat, skin, blood, hair and even the clothes we wear:

1. The scent due to sweat: Sweat consists mainly of water, minerals and fatty acids which, when excreted, also mix with skin bacteria.
2. Skin odour: Skin is an important part of human odor and contains several chemicals that can give a unique scent.
3. Blood: Blood contains various substances and chemicals, which can form an element of human scent that is recognizable by detection dogs.
4. Hair scent: Hair may contain substances that are released during daily life and can form an element of human scent.
5. Odour from clothing: Clothing can absorb the scent of the human wearing it and provide another element that can be used to activate detection dogs.

• A further potential source of information that can be used to activate the dog’s sense of smell.

Heat emitted by the human body can be detected by dogs. This is particularly useful in conditions where vision is limited, such as night missions or even below ground in search situations in depressed areas.

• Sound wave and chemical indications.

Dogs can detect sounds or odors coming from humans or their environment. This can help locate the person, especially in areas with dense vegetation or hard-to-reach areas.

• Behavioral signs

In some cases, people leave tracks in their environment that can be detected by dogs. These may be footprints, objects they have touched, or other signs of their presence that can be recognized by trained rescue dogs.

Overall, all these elements form the foundation for the training and mobilization of detection dogs. They provide the necessary information and stimuli for dogs to detect a missing person in any environment or conditions. The successful training of these dogs depends on continuous practice and close collaboration with their trainers. Additionally, their appropriate training is crucial for their effective contribution to search and rescue missions. Furthermore, training detection dogs requires patience, dedication, and ongoing care from their trainers. Trainers play a critical role in guiding them and enhancing their natural abilities. Moreover, continuous training of the dogs is necessary to maintain their skills and enhance their performance in real-life emergency situations. With proper training and guidance, detection dogs can become effective partners in search and rescue missions, aiding in locating missing individuals and providing assistance in critical situations.

EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

Basic Sample and Biological Material Collection Kit

The Basic Specimen and Biological Material Collection Kit, which every Search Technician volunteer must always carry as part of his/her basic personal equipment in his/her backpack, must include the following: zipper bags, nitrile gloves, atraumatic scissors, water for injection ampoules, non-sterile gauze. In cases where increased protective measures are necessary, so as not to leave our own DNA at the scene or in cases where the scene of the incident is considered particularly contaminated, we must also use the following as part of our PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Disposable polypropylene coveralls (SPP), Shoe covers (footwear), Headgear (or if the coverall has a hood), Face mask (recommended in all cases), Goggles or plastic visor.