For the first time in the agency’s history, the Otway Fire & Rescue Department achieved a lower insurance rating for the Otway fire district.
N.C. Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey announced the department’s new rating Wednesday. According to a release, the Office of the State Fire Marshal routinely inspects departments and assigns ratings based on factors such as staffing levels, sufficient equipment, proper maintenance of equipment, communications capabilities and availability of a water source, with the lower the number the better the rating.
The Otway Fire & Rescue Department achieved a 5 rating, down from its previous rating of 9S. The new rating translates to lower insurance premiums for homeowners within the fire district, with new rates becoming effective Tuesday, Sept. 1.