Henrico County Fire earns national distinctions for “commitment to excellence”

Henrico County is now one of only 132 localities nationwide with a Class 1 insurance rating from the Insurance Services Office.

March 18, 2016; 9:05 AM • by Trevor Dickerson

From the Henrico Economic Development Authority’s Henrico Now newsletter:

In September 2015, Central Virginia was in the spotlight as millions of viewers around the world followed the action at the UCI Road World Championships. The success of the event was due in large part to a collective effort on behalf of Henrico Fire and Police officials and other regional government organizations to ensure public safety and enjoyment of the event while minimizing the impact to residents and commuters. At event’s end, the world had witnessed a well-managed spectacle that was both entertaining and safe.

At the helm of the Henrico County Division of Fire during the event was Chief Tony McDowell. He is part of an award-winning team that recently received a distinction few other fire departments can claim: an Insurance Services Office (ISO) Class 1 rating. Henrico County is now one of only 132 localities nationwide with a Class 1 insurance rating. Even more impressive is the fact that Henrico is the first county in the United States with a Class 1 rating and an international accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).

This is an important distinction in that it illustrates the Division’s commitment to excellence and reflects the county’s high quality of life. It can also have a favorable impact on insurance premiums in the area, as some insurance companies consider ISO ratings when formulating quotes.

“From an economic development perspective, commercial property developers will look more favorably on a locality with a Class 1 rating as a measure of its commitment to fire protection and safety for its residents and visitors, making the area more desirable for development,” says Kem Blue, Vice President/General Manager, Short Pump Town Center. “Companies looking to relocate or expand to the area will know that they will pay low taxes and have better fire premiums in a Class 1 rating compared to other areas.”