SPRINGFIELD -- Effingham County Fire Rescue received a letter from the Insurance Services Office (ISO) on Friday announcing a new and improved rating of Public Protection Classification. 

Chief Clint Hodges shared the announcement with all ECFR members, stating, “We just received our packet from ISO  and, through the hard work of all of our members, we have improved to an ISO Class 3/3Y. This is the result of years of preparation and intense planning. Each of you should feel proud of this accomplishment, as it is a direct result of your hard work and dedication.”

ISO rates fire departments across the nation based on alarm receiving and communications, water supply distribution, fire station locations, equipment and manpower.

This improved rating will benefit homeowners and business owners through lower insurance premiums.