NEWTON, Mass. — The Newton Fire Department is now designated ISO Class 1.
The Newton Patch reported that the department is one of less than 200 departments in the nation and fourth in Massachusetts to earn the top rating. Over 47,000 fire departments are rated nationwide by ISO.
“This is a proud day for the Newton Fire Department, becoming just the fourth fire department in the state to receive a Class 1 rating,” Fire Chief Bruce Proia said. “This is confirmation that the mayor’s, the executive departments’ and the city council’s investment in public safety is paying dividends.”
ISO’s grading scale operates on a point system, attributing 50 percent of the grade to fire department operations, 40 percent to water availability and 10 percent to dispatch operations. Other factors that are measured include response times, personnel, apparatus and equipment, fire stations, training hours, fire inspections and hydrant inspections.
Homeowners and businesses also benefit from the rating, which can yield reductions in property insurance.
“This is great news for us, but also for the residents and business community of this city as well,” Chief Proia said.