The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners, alongside Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr, proudly announced that, effective November 1, the Lakewood Fire District will advance its Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating from Class 5 to an impressive Class 3. This rating shift places the Lakewood Fire Department among the elite fire departments in the United States. ISO ratings, which range from Class 1 (the highest) to Class 10, serve as the nation’s leading benchmark for fire department performance and efficiency.
This new Class 3 rating is a testament to the Lakewood Fire Department’s steadfast commitment to providing exceptional fire protection services, bolstered by quicker response times and proactive fire prevention initiatives. Chief Yahr attributes this success to the dedication of the department’s team and unwavering community support. “This reclassification is the result of years of hard work and commitment to excellence,” he remarked. “It reflects not only our firefighters’ capabilities but also the investments our community has made in essential fire protection infrastructure.”
In recent years, the Lakewood Fire Department has made significant enhancements across various operational fronts, including expanding its roster of full-time firefighters, upgrading its equipment and training programs, modernizing communication systems, updating its fleet, and initiating community outreach programs.
In addition to strengthening the department’s readiness, the improved ISO rating also presents a financial benefit for Lakewood residents, as many insurers use this rating to calculate property insurance premiums. Property owners are encouraged to reach out to their insurance providers to explore potential savings resulting from the improved rating.
The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners and Chief Yahr extend their gratitude to Mayor Ray Coles, Township Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein, the Township Committee, local businesses, and the community at large for their ongoing support, which has been vital to achieving this milestone.
For further details on the Lakewood Fire Department’s ISO rating and additional information on fire safety and prevention, visit www.LakewoodFD.org.