The Whispering Pines Fire Rescue Department (WPFRD) was recently notified by North Carolina Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey of their new fire rating of 3. The new designation goes into effect February 1, 2021. “We knew we had worked hard and were optimistic we would improve upon our previous rating, but to receive a 3, we are ecstatic,” said Fire Rescue Chief Rich Lambdin. “This dramatic improvement would not have been possible without our Village Council’s efforts and commitment to improving our department’s resources and especially our staffing levels. WPFRD personnel devoted many hours of preparation to make sure that we were prepared for the inspection. It’s also important to note that this was a community effort as the local water systems, especially Carolina Water Service, Moore County Public Safety (911) & Fire Marshal are included in the overall rating.”