CUMMING - The Insurance Services Office (ISO) has announced that Forsyth County has received an improved ISO rating.
This follows a study conducted in the county late last year and early this year.
This study audited Forsyth County’s ability to serve the public through an examination of three key areas of public safety. Fire protection, E-911 service and water services were studied in an in-depth analysis, so as to appropriately define the ISO rating for county residents and business owners. The analysis was followed by months of study and evaluation by ISO, which resulted in an improvement of the county’s rating from a 5 to a 3. Those located within five road miles of a fire station will benefit from the rating change from a 5 to a 3. For those residences and businesses that are beyond five road miles from a fire station, the new rating may not apply.
ISO ratings are on a scale from 1 to 10, with lower numbers representing better levels of protection. Ratings are based upon a number of factors, including fire response and equipment, E-911 call handling and efficiency, and fire hydrant volume and pressure availability.
“Any time a community can improve their ISO rating it is certainly an achievement,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. “For us to have improved our rating not by one number but by two is a significant accomplishment of which this community can be very proud."
Insurance companies are able to begin recognizing the new rating effective July 1.
What does the rating change mean?
It means potential insurance savings. Residents and business owners are encouraged by local officials to contact their insurance provider for specific information on how the rating change may impact their insurance.
“The results of the inspection and rating reflect the dedication our troops have to the protection of life and property from the ravages of fire and further reflects the strong commitment the Board of Commissioners and the county administration have to our citizens’ safety,” said Bowman. “The county has experienced remarkable growth over the years, so to not only maintain our rating but also improve it speaks volumes about how the county has worked to grow services along with the population increase.”
The last time ISO graded Forsyth County was 2008.
