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It’s the little things that make or break an organization

Wearing proper gear and following strong radio communication protocols can significantly impact broader performance and safety

In this week’s Chief Chat, Fire Chief Jason Caughey emphasizes the importance of attending to small details. He discusses how wearing proper gear and effective radio communication can significantly impact broader performance and safety. Caughey highlights that many line-of-duty deaths are linked to poor communication, an area often neglected. He urges fire service members to avoid complacency, maintain closed-loop communication, and adhere to standard vocabularies and protocols. Caughey concludes by urging organizations and individuals to periodically reset and refocus on competence and safety without sacrificing performance.

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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.