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Caught on camera: Competence in action

The kind of footage worth studying — and replicating

In this week’s Chief Chat, Fire Chief Jason Caughey emphasizes the importance of consistently doing the right things — wearing proper PPE, staying current on skills, knowing strategies and tactics, and maintaining good communication. While keyboard warriors will be the first to call out every little mistake they spot in photos or videos from a fire scene, Caughey urges flipping the script, giving them nothing to criticize. He encourages firefighters to be diligent and serve the community responsibly, avoiding shortcuts that could lead to failures. Caughey also highlights a recent Better Every Shift podcast conversation with Castle Rock’s Battalion Chief Eric Morgenthaler about a mayday event handled proficiently due to proper practice and preparation. Watch that episode here.

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Stop by the FireRescue1 booth to say hello

Chief Jason Caughey is a member of the FireRescue1 Editorial Advisory Board, serving as a senior fire advisor. He has been in the fire service for more than 20 years, serving in many capacities, including state trainer, volunteer firefighter, fire captain and volunteer fire chief. Caughey currently serves as fire chief of the Laramie County Fire Authority (LCFA) in Cheyenne, Wyoming. LCFA is a combination fire department with 100 members, 9 full-time members, 12 resident firefighters and 100 volunteer members protecting 25,000 citizens in Laramie County. Through eight strategically placed stations, the district covers and protects 1,150 square miles ranging from suburban development to rural ranch land. Caughey is committed to service of both the community and members of LCFA through progressive leadership that focuses on service, ownership and unity. Caughey has an associate degree and bachelor’s degree in fire science from Columbia Southern University and is currently working on his master’s in public administration. He also achieved his Executive Fire Officer designation from the National Fire Academy along with the Chief Fire Officer designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence. Connect with Caughey on LinkedIn or via email.