Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) has paid tribute to Reqs, one of Britain’s longest-serving fire investigation dogs, who passed away on Thursday. Reqs, who retired in July 2023 after 11 years of service, is remembered as a dedicated and hard-working member of the Fire Investigation Team.
The Deputy Chief Fire Officer praised Reqs’ invaluable contributions, saying, “Reqs faithfully served alongside his handler Nikki Harvey for over a decade, attending 500 fire scenes to identify the presence of flammable liquids. His work was instrumental in assisting criminal investigations and securing convictions.”
Recognised for Service
In November 2023, Reqs was awarded the prestigious PDSA Order of Merit, becoming its 42nd recipient, in recognition of his lifetime of dedication and achievements. This honour cemented his place as a remarkable figure in the field of fire investigation.
Handler’s Tribute
Watch Commander Nikki Harvey, who worked closely with Reqs throughout his career, shared her heartfelt memories. “Reqs was not just a colleague but a beloved member of my family. His achievements highlight just how remarkable he was. I feel privileged to have shared his life, from training and working with him to watching him enjoy retirement.”
Harvey reflected on their bond, describing their time together beyond work: “We took long walks, played with his favourite toys, and enjoyed the quieter moments of his well-deserved retirement.”
A Legacy of Dedication
During his career, Reqs attended hundreds of fire scenes, using his highly trained sense of smell to detect accelerants and other flammable substances critical in fire investigations. His work provided crucial evidence in numerous cases, directly aiding in the pursuit of justice.
HFRS expressed condolences to Harvey, acknowledging the loss of an extraordinary team member whose dedication and service left an indelible mark.
A Valued Colleague Remembered
“Today, we pay tribute to a valued colleague and loyal companion. Reqs’ contributions will not be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire us,” the Deputy Chief Fire Officer said.
The fire investigation community and the public are mourning the loss of Reqs, celebrating his lifetime of achievements and the vital role he played in supporting the work of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue
