Chief Jason Caughey discusses the importance of gaining perspective in the fire service by actively seeking out new ideas and approaches from different departments. He emphasizes the need to honor tradition while leading change, and encourages firefighters to explore, learn from others, and utilize technology and research. By attending national conferences and stepping out of comfort zones, firefighters can grow both individually and as an organization. Caughey challenges firefighters to reach out, investigate the world and continuously seek improvement.
Get More from Chief Caughey
Many new chiefs and fire officers struggle to find the right balance between micromanaging and letting go
We tout our cancer prevention measures but then take turnout gear into schools, place weight rooms in engine bays and puff on cigars outside the station
To expand our perspective, we must look outside our insular ideas and accept that we may not have all the answers
Chief Caughey urges fire service leaders to focus on developing new firefighters’ critical thinking skills
Grant funds are the lifeline of the volunteer fire service so we must set ourselves up for success in the application process
