LAKE HIAWATHA — The Lake Hiawatha Fire Department has announced that, effective September 1, 2026, it has improved its Insurance Services Office Public Protection Classification rating from Class 4 to Class 3.
The Insurance Services Office Public Protection Classification system rates fire departments on a scale of ten classes, with Class 1 representing the best possible rating and Class 10 representing no fire protection at all. Fewer than 13 percent of fire departments in the State of New Jersey have achieved a Class 3 rating.
Department officials said achieving a Class 3 rating is a significant accomplishment for an entirely volunteer fire department. The improved rating reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to excellence in fire protection, emergency response, firefighter training, apparatus, equipment, water supply infrastructure, dispatching and communications, and community risk reduction efforts.
An improved Insurance Services Office rating demonstrates a fire department’s ability to provide a higher level of fire protection for the residents and businesses it serves. In some cases, property owners may also see benefits through potential reductions in insurance premiums. The department is encouraging residents and business owners to contact their insurance providers for more information on how the new rating may affect their policies.
Department officials credited the accomplishment to the dedication of the department’s firefighters, its Board of Fire Commissioners, the Parsippany Water Department, and the Parsippany Police Department, which operates the department’s communications and dispatch center.
The Lake Hiawatha Fire Department thanked residents for their continued support as it strives to deliver the highest level of service.
