Residents of the Chatfield, an assisted living residence, received a visit from Nika the Brownwood Arson Dog and her handler Fire Marshal Buddy Preston on Monday.

Preston introduced the residents to Nika and explained how she is trained to sniff out accelerant fluids at fire scenes.  Preston and Nika performed their training exercise for the residents.  He explained that the time needed to investigate a fire scene can be reduced by hours with the help of Nika pinpointing the origin of the fire.

Nika showed everyone how she knows the difference between work and play.  She is still a puppy and was able to entertain the group with her antics yet still show off her skills.

Preston explained that he and Nika are not only investigators but also educators and will be traveling to local schools and daycares to talk to students about arson dogs and how to help prevent fires.

Arson dogs are recertified every year, having to pass a series of three tests, according to Preston.  Their service life is usually five to seven years due to health complications, such as hip problems which are the result of years walking on uneven terrain, which usually cause the dog’s retirement.  Preston stated that Nika will remain in his care even after her retirement.

Nika came to the City of Brownwood and the Brownwood Fire Department earlier this month after completing 4 weeks of training alongside Preston at the State Farm Arson Dog Program in Alfred, Maine.  State Farm provided a grant to the City of Brownwood which funded the training, travel expenses and acquisition of Nika.

Please see video below of Nika and Preston’s visit to the Chatfield.

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