Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Maintains ISO 1 Classification

Sioux Falls Fire Rescue is proud to announce it will maintain its ISO 1 classification, the highest rating a fire department can receive from the Insurance Services Office. SFFR first achieved this classification in 2015. ISO evaluates fire departments every three to five years.

More than 39,000 fire protection areas across the United States have been evaluated, but only 388 were rated as a Class 1 by ISO in 2020. Fire departments are evaluated on a 100-point scale with the fire department, water department, and communications all included in the assessment. Bonus points are given based on risk reduction efforts related to community education, code enforcement, and investigation programs.

“We’re grateful for our partners at Public Works and Metro Communications, as well as others across the community, who help us save lives and protect property every day,” said Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Chief Matt McAreavey. “We take great pride in providing exceptional customer service to our community. This recognition from an independent third party confirms our community’s commitment to public safety and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the great women and men of SFFR.”

ISO is an independent company that provides information about risk for insurance companies, communities, fire departments, insurance regulators, and others. The Class 1 rating for Sioux Falls Fire Rescue means our City should expect less fire loss within the community than the national average because of the important steps the department has taken. The rating has the potential to positively impact insurance premiums for property owners within city limits as well.