The men and women of Suffolk County’s first responders are the backbone of any response to an emergency. Working right along side them are trusted, and highly trained, canine companions.
Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (SFRES) announced the addition of K-9 Jimmy to its team. Jimmy, who recently graduated from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Accelerant Detection Canine Handler Course, will serve as Suffolk County’s official Accelerant Detection dog; working alongside his handler, Suffolk County FRES Fire Marshal Aaron Rombough.
“All of us are proud to welcome Jimmy to the FRES Family. We have no doubt about the incredible impact Jimmy will have in the protection of our homes, property, and lives. - Welcome Jimmy!” said SFRES.
Jimmy’s specialized training enables him to detect even the smallest traces of unburned fuel and accelerants with pinpoint accuracy. His skills will be vital in protecting Suffolk County residents and their property by assisting investigators in combating arson and other fire-related crimes.
“Jimmy is the eighth ATF trained Accelerant Detection Canine assigned to FRES to help combat fire crimes and we are proud to have him follow in the paws of the intelligent and skillful dogs before him,” said SFRES.
For more than 30 years, the Suffolk County Fire Marshal’s Office, under FRES, has consistently maintained an Accelerant Detection Dog — making the partnership between FRES and the ATF the longest-running collaboration of its kind in the nation.
However, it’s not just the longevity of this relationship that makes it stand out — it’s the commitment to excellence. This excellence stems not only from the ATF’s world-class Accelerant Detection Canine training program but also from the dedication, professionalism, and keen investigative skills of FRES leadership and the Fire Marshals who work hand-in-paw with these remarkable K-9 partners.