ISO Press Release 2026
The City of Rye Fire Department has earned an improved Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public
Protection Classification, advancing from an ISO Class 4 to an ISO Class 3 following its most
recent review.
ISO evaluations measure how well a community is protected from fire risk by examining
emergency communications, fire department operations, staffing, training, water supply, and
community risk reduction efforts. Communities are graded on a scale from Class 1, which
represents the highest level of protection, to Class 10. Achieving Class 3 places Rye among a
smaller group of departments demonstrating a strong level of fire protection. Nationally, survey
data indicates that approximately 91% of ISO evaluations result in no change to a community’s
classification, 8% result in an improvement, and only about 1% retrogress, underscoring the
significance of Rye’s advancement.
This improvement reflects the continued collaboration between the city, the department, and the
union to enhance response capabilities and advance the organization.
Since the previous review, the department has strengthened operational readiness by establishing
an increased staffing level on duty each shift, improving deployment and company performance.
The review also recognized the consistent response of off-duty career members and volunteer
personnel to major incidents, along with expanded auto-aid partnerships with neighboring fire
departments, all of which increased credit for available company personnel.
Training was another key factor in the improved rating. The institution of career officers, with
one designated as the Municipal Training Officer, has allowed the department to formalize,
expand, and document its training program. With all officers now Instructor I certified,
company-level training occurs regularly while on shift, embedding training into daily operations
and supporting continuous professional development.
Technology investments also contributed to the improved classification. The implementation of
First Due, a comprehensive fire service software platform, enhanced scheduling, inventory and
fleet management, and operational readiness. ISO recognized the system’s response module and
GIS capabilities, which support pre-incident planning and situational awareness.
Community risk reduction efforts played an important role as well. The revitalized Fire
Education program expanded fire safety instruction in local schools and extended outreach into
the community through the department’s annual Open House and additional public education
initiatives.
An improved ISO rating provides meaningful value to residents and businesses. It reflects a
department that is better prepared to respond to emergencies and may positively influence
property insurance premiums depending on individual carriers. Given that many ISO surveys
result in no change and only a small percentage see improvement, the City’s advancement to
Class 3 highlights the progress made in strengthening Rye’s fire protection capabilities.
While reaching ISO Class 3 represents a significant milestone, the department views it as a step
forward.
Looking ahead, the City of Rye Fire Department will continue efforts to increase staffing,
expand pre-incident planning and inspections, strengthen training and documentation, and
continue the planned replacement of aging apparatus. With these initiatives underway, the
department intends to build a year of supporting data and pursue a future review with the goal of
achieving an ISO Class 2 rating.
This achievement reflects the dedication of the department’s members, the support of City
leadership, and strong regional partnerships, reinforcing the City of Rye’s continued
commitment to providing a high level of fire protection to the community
