PINE LEVEL – State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor has announced a new and improved Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating for the Pine Level Fire Department.
The rating is one of many factors an insurance company uses to determine the quality of fire protection in a district, which has a direct impact on homeowners’ insurance premiums.
Fire Chief Joe Radford said the current ISO rating is 4. On April 1, 2025 the improved rating will be lowered to 3.
“The ISO grades the fire department in how we respond, staff levels, apparatus and training. There are multiple factors that go into the grade,” Chief Radford said. “I think it’s great news for the community. It shows our hard work and dedication. It is a showcase of the volunteers and their efforts, and what they are willing to do for their neighbors.”
Chief Radford encourages residents in the Pine Level (PI-LE) fire district to monitor their next homeowners insurance policy. Often times improved ISO ratings can lead to a lower premium.
“This reduction in rating represents the dedication and commitment of the members of Pine Level Fire Department to continuous growth and improvement. Johnston County Emergency Services is proud of the efforts of the department and commends the membership on the work it took to improve their ISO classification,” said Johnston County Emergency Services Director Kevin Hubbard.
Pine Level Mayor Jeff Holt said, “I join State Fire Marshall Brian Taylor in congratulating the members of the Pine Level Fire Department for their continued and commendable service to the citizens of Pine Level, and the surrounding community. Chief Joe Radford, his leadership team, and all members of the department have worked tirelessly to improve upon the emergency service response capabilities, through extensive training, additional equipment, continuing education classes, telecommunication, and staffing. I speak for my fellow Town Council members, our employees, and all residents of Pine Level and the Pi-Le Fire District, and say thank you for making our community a safer place to live, work, play, and raise our families!”
The Pine Level Fire Department was established in January 1953. The department currently has 27 volunteers members plus 10 paid part-time firefighters.
