The Hampton Fire and Rescue division has maintained its Class 1 rating following a recent evaluation by the Insurance Services Office (ISO). The department first achieved this top rating in 2015.
The ISO assesses fire protection capabilities in cities, counties, and districts across the United States. Its evaluation includes emergency communications, fire department operations such as equipment, staffing, training, community risk reduction efforts, water supply systems, and required fire flows. Only eight other departments in Virginia currently hold the Class 1 distinction.
Insurance companies often use ISO ratings to help determine policy rates for homeowners. According to Bankrate.com: “If your fire department has a strong score from the ISO, this suggests to your insurance provider that the likelihood of your home being destroyed by a fire is low.”
Fire Chief Jason Monk commented on the achievement: “Maintaining our Class 1 rating is the product of many dedicated men and women creating and delivering service improvements to the community and is a testament to our continuous improvement expectations. This team effort wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Division members and city officials.”
Nationally, more than 48,000 fire departments have been reviewed by ISO; only 388 have received a Class 1 rating. In Virginia, Hampton is one of just nine agencies with this designation. Additionally, it is among only three combination fire and rescue organizations statewide that are both accredited by CPSE and hold a Class 1 rating at the same time.
Hampton Fire and Rescue serves over 140,000 residents across an area covering both land and water. The division’s staff includes more than 300 full-time employees along with volunteers operating out of multiple stations. In 2022 alone, they responded to over 30,000 calls for assistance.
