OIFR Remains a Class 6 with Survey and Rating Bureau

— From Chief Kevin O’Brien, OIFR — 

In a letter received on April 8, 2014, from the Washington Survey and Rating Bureau (WSRB), Orcas Island Fire and Rescue was informed that our Protection Class Rating will remain a 6 which is the base rating for the fire district.

Over the last year, Orcas Island Fire and Rescue has been preparing for an evaluation by the Washington Survey and Rating Bureau (WSRB), which began its analysis of OIFR on in October, 2014. The WSRB evaluates fire districts and water systems and assigns a rating that insurance companies use to establish insurance premiums. OIFR has maintained a base rating of 6 that was last assigned by the WSRB in 1988. Consistent with the laws and standards dictating fire department operations, the WSRB rating system has become more detailed and comprehensive since 1988.

Chief Kevin O’Brien quoted, “this is great news! Through strong community support and the great work of our commissioners, career staff, and volunteers, Orcas Island Fire and Rescue is able to maintain a Class 6 rating which is outstanding for a community of our size and location. I wish to especially recognize Captain Chad Kimple for leading OIFR through the evaluation process. Nice work, Chad!”

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue is launching a robust firefighter recruitment effort to maintain current ratings in some of our surrounding villages such as Deer Harbor, West Sound, Olga, and Doe Bay. All interested potential volunteers should contact OIFR Volunteer Coordinator Mindy Kayl at (360) 376-2331 ormkayl@orcasfire.org.

Take care and stay safe.