Insurance rates drop after fire department investment
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GIBSON COUNTY, Tenn. — Gibson County residents will soon get a break when it comes to their property insurance. The county fire department’s ISO rating dropped from a 9 out of 10, to a 6 on September 1. ISO rates areas based on how prepared they are for emergencies. “The fire department is rated on the equipment we have, our ability to haul water, and our training,” Gibson County Fire Chief Bryan Cathey said. According to Chief Cathey, new equipment was key in dropping the rating. They have converted three retired ambulances into service companies over the past few years. They are used to haul equipment all over the county for calls. “We carry extra equipment on the service company that ISO requires,” Chief Cathey said. “It was a large point item for ISO.” According to Chief Cathey, homeowners could save anywhere from $500 to $2,000 from the new rating. Residents in the area are excited about saving money, but are also happy to know they are safer. “If people feel a little bit safer about being protected from fries, that will hopefully give more piece of mind,” Gibson County resident Ed Tatum said.” Chief Cathey said other agencies were factored into the rating including the water district and 911 dispatch. “All these agencies came together and worked really hard to try and get this,” Chief Cathey said. “It’s not just a fire department rating.” Chief Cathey hopes the new rating will also give the county an edge with recruiting new businesses. A few cities and towns throughout the county also lowered their ISO rating, including Medina, Dyer, and Bradford.
