Officials with the North Carolina Department of Insurance, Office of State Fire Marshal have notified the Town of Nags Head that its fire protection class has improved after a March 2018 inspection.
The improved fire protection class rating, which decreased from 4 to 2, will most likely not impact insurance premiums for homeowners; however, Nags Head business owners are encouraged to contact their insurance agent to let them know of the change, which becomes effective August 1, 2018. Premiums for one and two-family dwellings will not be affected as homeowners already realize the lowest possible insurance premiums available to them.
The inspection, conducted by officials with the Department of Insurance Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), is required on a regular basis as part of the North Carolina Response Rating System (NCRRS). Among other things, the routine inspections look for proper staffing levels, sufficient equipment, proper maintenance of equipment, communications capabilities and availability of a water source.
The North Carolina Response Rating System ranges from one (highest) to 10 (not recognized as a certified fire department by the state), with most rural departments falling into the 9S category. While lower ratings do not necessarily indicate poor service, a higher rating does suggest that a department is overall better equipped to respond to fires in its district. Higher ratings can also significantly lower homeowners insurance rates in that fire district.
“I’d like to congratulate Chief Zorc for the department’s performance and for the hard work of all the department members,” said North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey.
“The improved fire protection rating could bring about insurance rate reductions for Nags Head’s businesses,” said Fire Chief Zorc. “While we are proud of our recent accomplishments, there is room for improvement, and we will continue our efforts towards making Nags Head as safe as possible.”