After several unifications over the years and combining many different forms of fire department operations, episode four of South Metro's Around the Kitchen Table Podcast focuses on the project to revise, revamp and rollout updated versions of SMFR's Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs) with safety at the forefront. In this 30 minute episode, you will hear from Division Chief of Operations Jeff Tasker, Battalion Chief of Administration Mike Burke and Deputy Chief of Emergency Services John Curtis.

Time Codes:

:40 Chief Curtis Introduction - origin, focus and direction of the SOG Revision Project

4:00 Introductions from Chief Tasker and Chief Burke - setting the stage

6:20 Background on rotational position assignment for Chief Burke

7:00 Started with evaluating SOGs - applying to critical factors & tasks, along with decision making support

11:07 Importance of support and empowerment for critical thinking

12:28 Workflow and new format of revised SOGs. Written with a purpose - input received from subject matter experts and approved by Chiefs at all levels

15:00 Staging the rollout, color coding

17:20 Collaborative approach with the project

20:25 Kudos from Chief Tasker

20:50 Kudos from Chief Burke

21:10 Importance of passing along lessons learned and experience to younger generations in the fire service and supporting those promoting in rank

23:10 Other updates from Chief Curtis - budget process and philosophy, legislation, State of the District (PACE acronym), academy plans for 2024

27:28 Closing Remarks