Fire Department Receives Better Ratings

has improved its protection class ratings, which may help home and business owners pay less for fire insurance premiums.

The Washington Survey and Rating Bureau analyzed the department's water supply, operations (trucks, personnel and equipment), fire prevention and inspections, and communications, and lowered the ratings (the lower the number, the better, according to Fire Chief Eric Waters). The department's rating within the city limits improved from 5 to 4 and improved from 6 to 5 outside the city limits, including Fox Island. 

According to Waters, the rating is used to determine how much a home or business owner will pay for fire insurance premiums. 

"By being diligent in effectively using the financial resources that support Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One, we have been able to document reduced response times, a safer community and our readiness to respond in case of emergencies," said Waters. "This has obvious direct benefits to our citizens including a possible decrease in their insurance premiums."

The fire department encourages residents to contact their insurance provider to report the new rating as it may result in a decrease for individual annual homeowner's or business insurance premium.

Gig Harbor City Administrator Rob Karlinsey said the City's yearslong investment in its water system supply, pressure and redundancy contributed to the new ratings.

Dick Bower, the Building and Fire Safety Director for the City of Gig Harbor, agreed.

"While this was in part the result of longstanding partnerships between the Department, City, and other utility providers, thanks really go to the community which made the infrastructure, operational, and fire prevention efforts that lead to the improved rating possible," said Bower.

The new ratings go into effect Sept. 1.