Overview
Training for k-9 explosive teams is a highly specialized endeavor that requires some of the highest standards and dog handler dedication of any form of k-9 training.

k-9 Explosives Detection Class (EDC)
This is a specialized class offering comprehensive training and practical skills designed to prepare EDC teams for today’s current threat atmosphere. The course includes:

• Understanding the terrorist assault structure
• Effective application of the EDC as a counter terrorist tool
• Lessons learned from the Middle East
• Explosives: familiarity and safe handling procedures
• Knowledge of basic IED and booby trap concept and design
• Construction of training aids
• Efficient search procedures, prioritizing, safety considerations
• Maintenance / enhancement procedures
• Scene evaluation and deployment procedures
• Threat assessment: comprehending the totality of the picture; credible versus non credible packages, etc.
• Understanding and applying operant conditioning methodology
• Explosives odor recognition, development of generalization capabilities
• Conditioned response to target odors: focused indication, stare at source
• Handler independent alert
• Search patterns: vehicles, buildings, open air, etc.