ISO Public Protection Classification

The Insurance Service Office (ISO) collects information on municipal fire-protection efforts in communities throughout the United States. It analyzes the relevant data using the Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS). Public Protection Classifications (PPC) range from 1 to 10 with Class 1 representing superior property fire protection and Class 10 indicating that the area’s fire-suppression program does not meet ISO’s minimum criteria.

ISO helps the communities evaluate their public fire-protection services. The program provides an objective, country-wide standard that helps fire departments in planning and budgeting for facilities, equipment, and training. They also provide incentives and rewards for communities that choose to improve their firefighting services.

The most significant benefit of the PPC program is its effect on losses. Statistical data on insurance losses bears out the relationship between excellent fire protection — as measured by the PPC program — and low fire losses. Insurance companies use PPC information to help establish fair premiums for fire insurance — generally offering lower premiums in communities with better protection.

The Superstition Fire & Medical District was last reviewed by ISO in 2019 and received a Public Protection Classification of 2.

For more information, please visit http://www.iso.com.