Reqs - PDSA Order of Merit
Fire Investigation Dog, Reqs, has been awarded the PDSA Order of Merit for his life-saving devotion to duty, providing vital support at fire scenes. Since starting his career in the British Fire Service as a puppy, Reqs has attended over 500 fires.
Black Labrador Fire Investigation Dog Reqs’ selfless acts in the British Fire Service earned him this prestigious Medal, making him the 42nd recipient since it was first awarded. Watch his inspiring story:
Video found at youtu.be/nbPpdTdqt-M
Reqs' story
12-year-old Reqs has had a long and successful career as a Fire Investigation Dog, making him the longest serving within the British Fire Service. His career as a Fire Investigation Dog started in 2012; he was specifically chosen from his litter for having the correct attributes and high drive to become a Fire Investigation Dog.
After undergoing specialist training for a year with Lancashire-based Specialist Canine Services International, Reqs joined the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service as a fully trained Fire Investigation Dog.
Dogs like Reqs provide vital support at fire scenes; he helps to identify the presence of ignitable liquids (accelerants) such as petrol, white spirit, and lighter fluid. The evidence identified by Reqs enables Scenes of Crime Officers to take samples for analysis, often relied upon as critical evidence in court to explain the cause and origin of the fire beyond a reasonable doubt.
When Reqs and his handler, Nikki Harvey, are called to a fire scene, they can make a big difference. His presence and hard work help the fire investigators do their job faster, especially in difficult situations where people might have been hurt or worse.
Reqs and Nikki don't just help in Hertfordshire; they also go to fires in nearby places like Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire. And sometimes, they travel across East Anglia to help when they're needed.
Throughout his impressive career, Reqs has played a crucial role in helping solve some very serious crimes, like fires, murders, and attempted murders. Thanks to his skills, the evidence he's found has led to more than 250 years of prison time for the people who were found guilty.
Reqs works hard, even in tough situations and often over long periods. But what's amazing is that no matter how challenging the task is, he always brings the same energy and enthusiasm to every search he does.
Reqs has done more than just help with investigations. He's also been a helpful member of the community, acting as an ambassador in education by teaching people about the dangers of starting fires on purpose to prevent them.
For Reqs’ devotion to duty and unwavering service to society, he is a worthy recipient of the PDSA Order of Merit.
