The IRO Module System
- An overview

The IRO module system is based on the requirements and developments in international disaster relief missions. Search and Rescue dog teams are introduced, step-by-step, to real emergency situations. The program includes theoretical content, as well as practical exercises and tests. International and interdisciplinary cooperation in disasters is also an important element when preparing for a mission. Upon successful completion, the IRO mission readiness test (MRT) is concluded with the IRO "Mission Ready" quality label. In addition, ongoing evaluations and training are also available.

Modul - USAR Basics

The participants get an overview of the INSARAG system. What does it mean to be part of an international mission? What situations and hazards can helpers be faced with? These, and other, questions are fully dealt with in this module. The module is provided as a theoretical presentation. Know-how and experience is passed on by instructors with many years of INSARAG experience.

Module - MRT Preparation -

Area and Rubble

In this module, the participants learn the difference between the requirements for a search and rescue dog team in missions and in the field of sports. Here, the focus is on teamwork. In various scenarios, the participants train how to deal with siutations like an injured dog and also how to prevent this. The participants should understand the MRT requirements and practise them accordingly.

In the veterinary part, the participants are trained in the basics of First Aid Dog. This is supplemented by health-maintenance measures before, during and after search work. Special emphasis is placed on warming up and cooling down, the necessity of providing water and the importance of thermal regulation.

Modul - USAR Search Manager

Participants learn about the performance limits of technical search, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of biological search. This module combines exercises on biological and technical search. The focus is on the tactical application of technical and biological search.

Module - MRT & MRT Reclassification -

Area and Rubble 

This testing module allows ambitious search and rescue dog teams to gain certification or reclassification as international IRO mission ready in the disciplines Area and Rubble.

IRO Module - Mission Exercise

The aim of this module is to prepare search and rescue dog teams for the physical and psychological strain, which can arise during a mission. The focus here is on teamwork - all tasks are carried out in teams of 3 search and rescue dog teams.

IRO Module - USAR Exercise

The participants train how to cooperate with aUSAR team which has no K9 unit.

IRO Module - Classifier Training

The IRO Classifiers gain deeper understanding of the IRO MRT evaluation system and are kept up-to-date about any events of the current year, as well as news from the IRO Department for Deployment/ IRO Office.

Upcoming IRO modules