The Lewiston Fire Department achieved an ISO Class 3 fire protection rating in its most recent evaluation, an improvement from its previous Class 4 rating that positions it among the top 5% of fire departments nationally and will result in lower homeowner’s insurance premiums for many Nez Perce County residents living within the department’s response area. The Insurance Services Office rating, which evaluates fire departments on a scale of 1 (best) to 10 (worst), is a primary factor insurance companies use to set property insurance rates.
The improved rating reflects investments the department has made over the past five years in staffing, equipment, training, and water supply infrastructure. The fire chief said the achievement is the result of a deliberate strategic plan adopted in 2021 that identified specific improvements needed to earn a better ISO classification.
What the ISO Rating Measures
The ISO evaluation examines three primary areas: the fire department’s operations (staffing levels, training, equipment, and response times), the community’s water supply system (hydrant distribution, water pressure, and storage capacity), and the emergency communications system (911 dispatch capabilities and procedures). Each area is scored individually, and the results are combined into the overall classification.
The Lewiston Fire Department scored particularly well in training and equipment, areas where the department has invested heavily in recent years. The department’s average response time of 4 minutes and 30 seconds for the first-arriving unit also contributed to the improved rating.
“This rating is a validation of the work our firefighters do every day,” the chief said. “But it’s also tangible financial benefit for the residents we serve. Many homeowners will see their insurance premiums decrease as a result of this improved classification.”
Insurance Savings for Homeowners
Insurance industry data suggests that the improvement from ISO Class 4 to Class 3 can reduce residential property insurance premiums by 5-15%, depending on the insurance carrier and the specific policy. For a homeowner paying $1,800 per year in property insurance, the savings could range from $90 to $270 annually. Homeowners are encouraged to contact their insurance agent to ensure their policy reflects the updated ISO rating.
What Comes Next
The ISO rating is valid for approximately 10 years before the next evaluation. The department has set a long-range goal of achieving ISO Class 2, which would require additional staffing and water supply improvements. Residents with fire safety questions can contact the department’s fire prevention office or schedule a free home fire safety inspection by calling the station.