The Monroe Fire Department has earned an ISO Class 1 rating from the North Carolina State Fire Marshal’s Office, placing it among approximately 30 elite fire departments in the state to achieve this prestigious designation.

The Class 1 rating is the highest possible score from the Insurance Services Office (ISO), which evaluates fire departments on factors such as response capabilities, equipment, and overall preparedness. Additionally, the ISO examines communication systems, water supply, and community risk reduction efforts.  The rating system ranges from Class 1 (highest rating) to Class 10 (not recognized as a certified fire department by the state).

The announcement was made at a special City Council meeting held at Fire Station 4 on September 17, 2024.

“This is truly a community-wide achievement,” said Monroe Fire Chief Ron Fowler. “Our Class 1 rating reflects not only the Fire Department but also our water resources, communications systems, and the support we receive from the entire City.”

The ISO rating takes into account several factors:

• Fire Department (50%): Monroe’s exemplary training, top-tier equipment, and swift response capabilities were key to this score. 
• Water Supply (40%): Monroe’s hydraulic modeling system and comprehensive water resources ensured sufficient supply to meet the City’s firefighting needs.
• Communication Systems (10%): The Union County Communications Center (CCOM) played a crucial role with its efficient emergency call handling and advanced equipment.

Achieving a Class 1 rating not only reflects Monroe’s dedication to fire protection and public safety, but it could also lead to tangible benefits for the community. Homeowners and businesses may experience reductions in insurance premiums, thanks to this improved classification rating.

“Our goal has always been to serve our community to the best of our ability, and this rating reflects that commitment, but we’re not done yet. We’ll keep pushing to be even better,” said Fire Chief Fowler.

“This is a momentous occasion,” said Mayor Robert Burns. “As a City, we sure are blessed to be surrounded by individuals who are dedicated and willing to sacrifice in service to their community. Everyone in this entire City is grateful for what they do every day.”

When Chief Fowler began his service with the City in 1983, the Monroe Fire Department had a Class 6 ISO rating. Over the years, the department has steadily improved, reaching Class 5 (1995), Class 3 (2006), Class 2 (2019), and now Class 1 (2024).

“Going from a Class 6 to a Class 1 ISO rating in such a relatively short time is truly momentous and almost a miracle. We owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women of the Monroe Fire Department who respond to emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” said Council Member James Kerr.

“This accomplishment is a testament to the determination, hard work and commitment our fire department personnel have personified. I commend the City of Monroe Fire Department on this remarkable achievement,” said Council Member Franco McGee.

Chief Fowler attributes the opening of Fire Station 6 in September 2023 and the implementation of a hydraulic modeling system in the City’s Water Resources Department as key factors in achieving the top ISO rating. Fire Station 6 not only created jobs but also significantly improved response times for residents living in the upper northwest portion of the City, and the hydraulic modeling system verifies the robust capabilities of the City’s water supply system.

"It is truly a pleasure to work alongside a team of professionals whose experience, knowledge, and collaborative nature is the key to our success,” said Water Resources Director Scott Clark.

“I want to thank our Council for supporting the opening of Station 6 and funding the additional 12 firefighters to staff it,” said Council Member Gary Anderson. “This is truly a huge moment for our City. The men and women of the Monroe Fire Department are the absolute best in the business, and they make it happen every day.”

“I want to say on a personal note, I’ve had the occasion to go to five or six fires and watch these amazing firefighters at work. They are dedicated, focused, compassionate, efficient, and professional. Sharing this experience with all of them is phenomenal,” said Council Member Surluta Anthony.

The Water Resources Department worked closely with the Fire Department to overhaul pressure monitoring and flow testing to ensure ample supply in the event of a crisis.

“We have proven that our system is sustainable enough to handle a major fire event on one side of town and still have sufficient water supply on the other side of town to meet all of our needs,” said City Manager Mark Watson.

“We have a first-class Fire Department, a first-class Water Resources Department, and this shows once again that we’re a first-class City,” said Council Member David Dotson.

“Achieving this tremendous accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of our fine staff. We appreciate and acknowledge the sacrifice that all our first responders make 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year,” said Council Member Julie Thompson.

The NC State Fire Marshal’s Office notes that only two percent of fire departments nationwide hold a Class 1 rating, making Monroe’s achievement a testament to the City’s commitment to safety and excellence.

The rating, which takes effect on January 1, 2025, represents a new era of fire protection and community service in Monroe.