CHARLOTTESVILLE (WINA) – The Charlottesville Fire Department has received the highest possible rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO) of Class 1… which means residents could see among the lowest fire insurance rates in the country. Charlottesville is just one of nine Virginia jurisdictions to get a Class 1 rating… and is among 375 of the nation’s 40,000 departments to get this class.
City Fire Chief Andrew Baxter says the rating is comprised of four components on a weighted grading scale. The largest portion of the grade is the fire department itself… including what engine and ladder companies are there, geographic deployment, equipment, and pumping capacity.
The second-largest element is water supply… such as hydrant size, type, and installation — as well as frequency of hydrant placement.
The third score is emergency communication systems that include the facilities for the public to report fires; staffing, training, and certification of telecommunications; and facilities for dispatching fire calls.
The last component scored is community outreach efforts. These include fire prevention codes and enforcement; public fire safety education; and fire investigation programs.
Residence and business owners are encouraged to contact insurance providers to inquire about how Charlottesville’s Class 1 PPC rating may impact your premiums.
