Cracker and Echo's handler

Cracker and Echo are two specially trained Labradors who help Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service tackle arson and find people who are trapped or injured in emergency situations. We interviewed their handler, Crew Commander Mike Dewar, to find out more about these very talented fire dogs.

Cracker is a fire investigation dog, what does her job involve?
Cracker helps to tackle arson. She is an expert in detecting many different types of accelerants which may have been used to start a fire. After a fire has been put out, Cracker will go into a building and sniff out any signs of ignitable liquids. Any evidence she finds can then be used to help catch the people responsible for starting the fire.

Echo is an Urban Search and Rescue dog, what does his job involve?
His job is to search for people who have been trapped in a building as a result of an explosion or an earthquake. Echo has a very demanding job but he loves the work he does and he helps to save people’s lives. Eventually, we hope that Echo will be able to help in search and research operations abroad.

How were Cracker and Echo chosen?
Cracker and Echo are both Labradors. Labradors are a breed of Gundog. Gundogs are particularly good at following commands and having a good sense of smell.

Echo’s parents are search dogs whilst Cracker has some field champions in her blood line. Field Champions are dogs who have successfully competed in ability and working trials against other dogs.

The dogs are both very fit and a good sense of fun. They especially love playing with their toys.

What training did they have to go through?
The training for both dogs has been long and very intense. They were both about six months old when they started. It has required hours of instruction.

Echo took about two years to train whilst Cracker took about nine months. Echo’s training took longer because he needed a lot more control work built into his training schedule. I also had to learn how to handle the dogs as well – it has been hard work but I love it.  

What protective clothing do they have to wear?
The dogs have to wear protective boots on their paws. This is to keep their feet safe from being cut if they are climbing over rubble or broken glass.

What are their personalities like?
Echo is head strong and dominant – he can be stubborn at times and only listen if he wants to. However, he is still a lot of fun to work with. Cracker is a much gentler dog. She loves to be cuddled. Both dogs live with me and they are very close and love being together.

Can you give us any dog training tips?
Whatever training you do with your dog, make it fun! If they are happy, they will respond a lot better to your commands. Also, dogs are very perceptive. They can pick up on your feelings so make sure you enjoy the training and then they will!

Email us your questions about Cracker and Echo?