||| FROM BEN LUNA for ORCAS ISLAND FIRE & RESCUE |||
In October of 2024 the Community Protection Class (PC) rating for Deer Harbor (Fire Station 24) and Orcas Landing (Fire Station 26) areas increased to PC9A (Deer Harbor) and PC9 (Orcas Landing) from the previous rating of PC6. Orcas Island’s overall rating increased from PC6 to PC7. The full report is available on the OIFR website Click here for full report.
These ratings resulted from a Washington Surveying and Rating Bureau (WSRB) audit of the fire protection capabilities on Orcas Island. Protection classifications are determined for geographical areas and individual homes and help insurance companies determine risk. PC ratings range from 1 to 10. Higher numbers indicate higher risk due to distance from a fire station, the availability of water and other factors. Homeowners can obtain their home’s PC rating by calling WSRB, 206-217-0101.
PC ratings are just one factor that insurance companies may consider when setting property insurance rates. Policyholders in the State of Washington who receive a premium increase can request an explanation by contacting their insurer in writing. Residents of Orcas Island are also encouraged to request the PC rating’s impact on their property insurance rates. OIFR will host a presentation on property insurance rate increases by David Forte from the State of Washington Insurance Commissioner’s Office on June 2, 2025, from 3:30-4:00 PM. More information about this event will be provided on the OIFR website: www.orcasfire.org.
The Deer Harbor and Orcas Landing WSRB rating changes were based on too few volunteer firefighters living within 5 miles of each fire station. The increased rating for Orcas Island was based on the age of our firefighting fleet, water availability, communications, staffing and training. Orcas Island Fire and Rescue (OIFR) is working to resolve all deficiencies.
OIFR recruitment is ongoing and welcomes community members to stop by Station 21 in Eastsound to learn about becoming a volunteer firefighter and joining OIFR. Those interested may also call 360-376-2331 to make an appointment.
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