FAYETTEVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) — The Fayetteville Fire Department has announced a significant improvement in its Insurance Service Organization (ISO) Public Protection Classification, achieving a new rating of Class 3/3Y—up from its previous 4/4X designation. This change, effective September 1, 2025, may lead to reduced insurance premiums for residents and businesses in the Fayetteville Fire Protection District, which includes Fayetteville, Lansing, Ames Heights, Beckwith, and parts of Gatewood Road.
The department also extended its thanks to the Armstrong Creek Volunteer Fire Department for its clear public explanation of the ISO process and congratulated them on their recent rating as well.
“This improvement reflects years of work, dedication, and support from our community,” the Fayetteville Fire Department stated. “We credit this achievement to the continued backing of Fayette County citizens, who have supported the county fire levy since 1982.”
The ISO rating process evaluates fire departments using the Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS), which assesses four key areas:
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Emergency Communications
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Water Supply
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Fire Department Operations (including personnel, equipment, and training)
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Community Risk Reduction
The Fayetteville Fire Department outperformed national, state, and peer group averages in the two categories under its direct control: Fire Department Assessment and Community Risk Reduction.
Nationwide, only a small percentage of departments achieve a Class 3 rating or better. Out of 38,195 departments rated across the U.S., Fayetteville’s classification ranks higher than 31,867 others—a point of pride for the local fire service.
The department encourages all residents and business owners within its coverage area to contact their insurance providers to see how the improved ISO rating could affect their policies.
“We are proud of this milestone and remain committed to maintaining and improving our level of service,” the department said. “We thank every Fayette County citizen who continues to support our volunteer fire departments through the county fire levy.”
The new rating reflects the department’s ongoing investments in modern equipment, updated training, and a strong commitment to protecting the community.