On July 1, the Mississippi State Rating Bureau issued improved fire insurance classifications for fire departments located in Pearl River County’s District 11.
District 11 Fire Chief Chris Banks said their rating improved from a 8 to 7. The lower the number the better the rating.
According to the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies’ website, some insurance companies use National Board Class ratings, which is a number from 1 to 10 that refers to the public protection facilities in the area to determine insurance policy rates. The ratings emphasize fire protection and safety control. The lower the number, the better the facility and protection it provides against fires, the website states.
Homeowners who may be affected by the new rating must live within a five-mile radius of a fire station, Banks said. However, he urges homeowners to confer with their local insurance agent about rate changes. Any changes in rates will be pro rated to July 1.
There are three fire departments located within the boundaries of District 11. They are located in Carriere on Hwy. 11 N., in Hideaway Lake and on Sycamore Rd., Banks said. Altogether, the district encompasses about 43 square miles, but firefighters also respond to emergencies in other districts.
There are multiple steps involved when preparing for a visit from the rating bureau, which includes paperwork, training, record keeping and communications with the rating bureau, Banks said.
The county is currently upgrading its radio system, which will be a big help, Banks said.
If the district plans to improve in the future, Banks said more water distribution sites will need to be added.
Banks would like to thank the mutual aid departments and the volunteer firefighters who serve District 11.
“It’s tremendous the time and effort these firefighters put into making the district what it is today,” Banks said. “They stay on top of things. I’m also thankful for the community’s support.”
Banks would also like to invite members of the community who have questions about the district or fire department operations to attend their weekly open meetings, which are held every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Carriere Volunteer Fire Department on Hwy. 11.
For a map of fire districts, visit the county’s website at www.pearlrivercounty.net/fire/.