SMSARD

		SMSARD History
			In 2005, three SMSARD members received training from the Office of the Sheriff of St. Mary’s County and were certified in the use of Project Lifesaver equipment. These SMSARD members are now trained personnel capable of using tracking receivers to locate wandering Alzheimer’s patients who are wearing watch-sized transmitters provided at no cost by the county. SMSARD, through its participation in Project Lifesaver, is proud to help assure peace of mind to Alzheimer’s caregivers in the community The SMSARD trailer was completely refurbished in 2005. An internal self-sustaining power system was installed, along with new radios that allow direct communication with police and fire and rescue personnel. This mobile command unit is available for searches throughout Maryland and the surrounding area.
		SMSARD members participated in many community events in Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, including: the 2005 Law Enforcement Torch Run to benefit Special Olympics, the Seventh District Optimists Annual Blessing of the Fleet, and Animal Relief Fund’s Annual Pet Walk. Educational presentations were given to the first and second grade classes at George Washington Carver Elementary School and to the Oakville Boy Scouts.
		SMSARD Searches
		From January 1 to December 31, 2005, Southern Maryland Search and Rescue Dogs responded to 6 search missions in Maryland: St. Mary’s County: 3 Calvert County: 1 Prince George’s: 2 SMSARD responded to requests from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Department; the Calvert County Sheriff’s Department; the Maryland State Police, Leonardtown and Prince Frederick Barracks; the Montgomery County Police and the Prince George’s County Police. SMSARD canine units were called out to search for 4 missing persons. SMSARD cadaver dogs assisted in the search for the body of a missing homicide victim and helped to locate skeletal remains of an unidentified victim.
		During 2005, six SMSARD cnines passed their recertification evaluation for wilderness/airscent work. One canine recertified as a cadaver detection dog and an additional canine passed the cadaver certification evaluation and was certified for cadaver work. Two SMSARD canines have certified through the National Urban Search & Rescue Response System as FEMA Disaster Dogs. K9 Duncan is a FEMA certified Type II (Basic) Disaster Dog. In May of 2005, K9 Marko passed the FEMA Type II (Basic) Disaster Dog evaluation test and in October of 2005, Marko passed the FEMA Type I (Advanced) Disaster Dog evaluation test. Both dogs are now available to respond to natural and manmade disasters as local, state or national resources.


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