Trending Topics

Are we really taking our cancer risks seriously? Prove it.

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

Fire Chief Jason Caughey addresses the fire service community about the importance of taking cancer prevention seriously. He questions whether current practices align with the urgency of combating cancer, which is now presumptive in many states. Caughey highlights problematic behaviors, such as bringing turnout gear into schools, placing weight rooms in engine bays, and promoting cigar smoking, which contradict cancer safety measures. He emphasizes the need for consistent and thorough preventative actions like wearing SCBA during cleanups, using body isolation gear, and maintaining clean turnout gear.

Get More from Chief Caughey
Reflecting on life-changing moments, decision-making process, and advice to my younger self
The What Firefighters Want survey reveals firefighters’ perceptions of key factors like leading by example and staying connected to line personnel
Is your department ready to launch a natural disaster response amid reduced staffing and backup systems?
Many new chiefs and fire officers struggle to find the right balance between micromanaging and letting go
To expand our perspective, we must look outside our insular ideas and accept that we may not have all the answers

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.