Saint Paul Fire Department Announces Historic ISO Class 1 Rating

Saint Paul becomes the only fire department in Minnesota currently holding a class 1 rating. 
Today the Saint Paul Fire Department formally announced its achievement of an Insurance Services Office (ISO) Class 1 rating, the highest classification awarded through the ISO- Public Protection Classification program. 

“This Class 1 rating validates what we work toward every day—providing the highest level of protection to the people of Saint Paul. It's a reflection of the dedication of our firefighters, the strength of our partnerships, and the trust our community places in us,” said Interim Fire Chief Gregory Duren II.

This historic distinction makes Saint Paul the only fire department in Minnesota currently holding a Class 1 rating and recognizes the strength of the City's fire protection capabilities and the partnerships supporting public safety. 

Saint Paul Mayor Her said, “The Class 1 ISO distinction is a testament to the cross-departmental work of our firefighters and the coordinated work of Saint Paul Regional Water, the Department of Safety and Inspections, and Ramsey County Dispatch. Most importantly, it means our residents and businesses can count on us when it matters most."

The announcement featured remarks from Interim Fire Chief Gregory Duren II, Assistant Fire Chief Jeramiah Melquist, Saint Paul Regional Water Services Assistant General Manager Richard Rowland and Saint Paul Mayor Kaohly Her.

BACKGROUND ON ISO CLASSIFICATION
ISO evaluates community fire protection capabilities on a scale of 1 to 10, with Class 1 representing the highest classification. The comprehensive assessment examines fire department staffing, training, apparatus, equipment, emergency communications, water supply, and community risk reduction efforts, including fire prevention, public education, and fire investigations.
The Class 1 rating reflects the coordinated work of the Saint Paul Fire Department, Saint Paul Regional Water, the Department of Safety and Inspections, and Ramsey County Dispatch.

For Saint Paul residents and businesses, this independent assessment recognizes the strength of the systems and services they rely on during emergencies. Insurance companies may also consider ISO classifications when determining property insurance premiums, although individual rates and potential savings vary.