The Calgary Fire Department has unleashed a powerful new weapon in the fight against arson, and he comes with four paws and an incredible nose. Meet Titus, the department's first dedicated arson detection dog, whose specialized training allows him to detect minute traces of accelerants that human investigators might miss.
This two-year-old German Shepherd-Belgian Malinois mix represents a significant advancement in fire investigation capabilities for the city. Unlike traditional fire investigation methods that can take considerable time, Titus can quickly scan fire scenes and identify potential evidence of accelerant use, dramatically speeding up the investigative process.
A Nose for Justice
Titus underwent intensive training at the prestigious Maine State Police Canine Academy, where he mastered the detection of 14 different ignitable liquids commonly used in arson cases. His handler, Captain Jeff Lowing, emphasizes that Titus isn't just a tool but a partner in their mission to keep Calgary safe.
"His ability to detect accelerants in complex fire environments is remarkable," Captain Lowing explains. "What might take human investigators hours or even days to identify, Titus can often pinpoint within minutes."
How Titus Transforms Fire Investigations
The addition of Titus to the CFD team brings several key advantages:
- Rapid Detection: Titus can quickly clear scenes or identify areas needing further investigation
- Enhanced Accuracy: His sensitive nose can detect accelerant residues invisible to human senses
- Evidence Preservation: Early detection helps preserve crucial evidence for prosecution
- Public Safety: Faster investigations mean quicker identification of potential arson risks in the community
Titus lives with Captain Lowing and is available 24/7 for fire scene investigations throughout Calgary. The dynamic duo has already begun responding to calls, bringing state-of-the-art arson detection to the streets of Calgary.
The implementation of this specialized K-9 unit demonstrates Calgary's commitment to innovative public safety solutions and represents a significant step forward in fire investigation technology.
