Miami-Dade Fire Rescue rated as an ISO Class 1 fire department

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) is proud to announce that for the first time in its history, the department has achieved the Class 1 Public Protection Classification (PPC®) rating, the highest rating possible from the Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO). MDFR is the first department in the country with a response territory of greater than 1,000 square miles and a population of over one million to obtain a Class 1 rating.

Receiving a Class 1 ISO rating affirms that MDFR employs the most current state-of-the-art practices in emergency response and reduces community risks. Additionally, the ISO Class 1 rating significantly influences fire insurance premiums for residential, commercial and industrial properties in our community. A Class 1 rating will also help ensure lower premiums and guarantee top-notch services for residents, businesses and visitors in case of emergencies.

The ISO is an advisory and rating entity that serves the property and casualty insurance marketplace in policy development, and compliance with statutory laws, and offers insights based on statistical data collected since its inception in 1971. MDFR has met the goals set forth by ISO in various areas, including emergency communications systems, the water supply system, response coverage and fire suppression resources, training, and fire prevention programs, such as public education, community outreach, and fire and life safety inspections. MDFR undergoes the ISO evaluation every five years, and its achievement of a Class 1 rating demonstrates MDFR’s commitment to continuous improvement throughout all facets of the organization.

“It fills me with great pride to lead Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and receiving a Class 1 ISO rating is an honor that we do not take for granted,” said Fire Chief Ray Jadallah. “Miami-Dade County residents and visitors deserve the very best fire-rescue services, and our outstanding hardworking firefighters and MDFR staff strive to deliver that every day. Joining the elite rank of other fire departments in the country who hold this prestigious distinction is the direct result of our commitment and dedication to the community we serve.”

“I am immensely proud that Miami-Dade Fire Rescue has reached a historic milestone by achieving the prestigious Class 1 rating,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Our County greatly benefits from the exemplary fire protection services that the department proudly provides to our residents, visitors, and businesses daily. The Class 1 rating can guarantee exceptional services in times of emergencies, while bringing economic relief to our community and lowering the cost of doing business by helping reduce insurance rates. I commend Miami-Dade Fire Rescue for its continuous pursuit of excellence and its tireless efforts to enhance public safety in our community."

Following rigorous training and preparation, this classification places MDFR in the top 1 percent of fire agencies in the country; an elite group of less than 500 of over 38,000 fire departments in the nation that have achieved a Class 1 rating. Additionally, MDFR joins just 123 fire agencies in the country that are a Class 1 and accredited by the Center for Public Safety Excellence Commission of Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) representing organizations that are strategic-minded, well-organized, properly equipped, staffed, and trained. Fostering national recognition, fellow public safety agencies, stakeholders and the public are assured that MDFR’s mission and objectives are aligned with best practices in the fire service and meet the needs of our community.