Following recent analysis by the ISO (Insurance Services Office, Inc.),
the Village of Pleasant Prairie was notified that its ISO rating would
be raised to Class 3. The ISO is an independent company serving
insurance companies, communities, and regulators nationwide by providing
information about risk related to property loss from structural fires.
Based on expert analysis, the ISO assigns a Public Protection
Classification for Fire Departments from 1 to 10, with Class 1 being the
best possible rating. According to the ISO, nationwide, only 3.4% of
those evaluated receive a Class 3 or better. The ISO evaluates the
Receiving and Handling of Fire Alarms (accounting for 10%), the Fire
Department (including staffing, equipment and training – accounting for
50%), and Water Supply (accounting for 40%). A major factor behind the
improved rating relates to the Village water supply, including the
number, placement and condition of fire hydrants. Information gained
from the ISO analysis also offers communities additional insight when
developing annual budgets and considering future improvements.
The
improved ISO rating may offer a financial benefit to Pleasant Prairie
residents and businesses. In the past, a majority of personal and
commercial property insurance providers used ISO ratings while deciding
whether or not to extend coverage and when determining premiums. A
lower, or improved, ISO rating, could translate into a lower cost for
property insurance. Though some insurance carriers, such as State Farm,
no longer base their rates on ISO ratings, there are other insurance
providers that continue to use ISO ratings when determining rates.
Residents are encouraged to contact their insurance provider to
determine if discounts related to the Village’s improved ISO rating are
available. The updated rating will take effect on November 1 of this
year.