The Fredericton Fire Department is proud to introduce its new Ignitable Liquid Detection (IGL) Canine team, Augie, a black labrador retriever and handler Lieutenant Jennifer Vail.
“The Fredericton Fire Department is pleased to welcome Augie to our team, and we look forward to the important role he and Lieutenant Vail will serve in our community,” said Chief Dwayne Killingbeck. “Having this role in our fire service will support our tradition of innovation and commitment to investigative excellence.”
Lieutenant Vail brings 21 years of experience to the role, including 16 years of fire suppression and five years in the Fire Prevention Division. Together, Lieutenant Vail and Augie recently completed specialized training through the International Fire Dogs Program and achieved their certification as an Ignitable Liquid Detection Canine team.
IGL canines provide significant advantages during fire investigations by helping investigators quickly identify areas which have a higher probability of producing laboratory results confirming the presence of ignitable liquids.
This capacity can improve efficiency and enhance accuracy. The program also provides valuable opportunities for public education and community engagement.
This initiative continues a proud tradition that began in 1999 when Inspector Mark Nowlan introduced Snickers, Atlantic Canada’s first arson detection canine, to the Fredericton Fire Department. Over the years, Mark and his canine partners, Snickers, Mallow, and Nealon, played a vital role in fire investigations throughout the region, setting a high standard of excellence and service.
Learn more about the Fredericton Fire Department online.