Shelby residents are safer and could have more money in their pockets following an inspection of the Shelby City Fire Department.
The North Carolina Insurance Commissioner completed an inspection on behalf of the State Fire Marshal’s Office in January which resulted in an improved rating. The fire department’s ranking dropped from a four to a two with a one being the highest possible outcome.
The lower rating not only translates to increased safety but could potentially mean lower homeowner’s insurance premiums.
Shelby Fire and Rescue Chief William Hunt said the last inspection was done in 2008 when Shelby received a four.
Hunt said the rating, which is required by state law for departments serving districts of 100,000 people or less, is based on several factors, including water system availability, the 911 communications system and the fire department’s level of staffing and equipment.