Soledad Fire Department Earns ISO Class 2 Rating; Ranking Among the Top 7% of Fire Departments Nationwide

 

SOLEDAD, Calif. — The City of Soledad announced on Friday, October 9 that the Soledad Fire Department has achieved an ISO Class 2 Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating, effective September 2026, improving from its previous Class 3 rating. This achievement places Soledad among approximately 7% of fire departments evaluated nationwide that have earned a Class 2 classification, recognizing the City’s continued investment in fire protection, emergency response capabilities, and public safety.

The ISO Public Protection Classification program evaluates a community’s ability to provide effective fire protection through a comprehensive assessment conducted approximately every three to five years. The evaluation examines the local fire department's capabilities, water supply infrastructure, emergency communications, and community risk reduction efforts.

“This is a huge accomplishment for a City and Fire Department our size,” said Jason Luckenbach, Assistant Chief of the Soledad Fire Department. “The capabilities of our Fire Department have been a top priority, and to achieve recognition on this scale is quite an honor. This demonstrates the dedication and commitment of City staff and reflects the priority we have placed on public safety and critical water infrastructure.”

A Significant Achievement for a Single-Station Fire Department

Of more than 37,000 fire departments evaluated nationwide, approximately 2,170 have achieved an ISO Class 2 rating. These classifications recognize communities that demonstrate strong fire protection capabilities and infrastructure.

Class 1 and Class 2 ratings often reflect larger, densely populated communities with multiple fire stations and extensive infrastructure. For a single-station fire department like Soledad’s, achieving a Class 2 rating reflects the strength of its training, equipment readiness and maintenance, emergency dispatch capabilities, mutual and automatic aid partnerships, and the reliability of the community’s water system.

The rating reflects a coordinated, citywide effort involving multiple departments and essential public safety services.

Strategic Investments in Public Safety Make a Difference

The City’s improved rating reflects continued investments in fire protection, including critical funding provided through Measure Y. This funding supports partial fire department staffing, fire apparatus maintenance, and essential equipment needed to protect Soledad residents and respond effectively to emergencies.

The City also recognizes State Senator Anna Caballero for helping secure a $2 million grant opportunity to acquire a fire department ladder truck. This investment has significantly expanded the department’s operational capabilities and contributed to the City’s overall fire protection resources.

The achievement is the result of collaboration among the Fire Department, the City’s Water Department, emergency communications personnel, and community risk reduction efforts, supported by the City’s commitment to maintaining the resources necessary to deliver effective emergency services.

Understanding the ISO Public Protection Classification

The Insurance Services Office (ISO) evaluates communities using established criteria informed by nationally recognized fire protection and water system standards, including standards developed by the National Fire Protection Association and the American Water Works Association.

A community’s Public Protection Classification is one factor that insurance companies may consider when evaluating property insurance coverage and premiums. An improved classification can positively influence insurance availability and rates for homeowners and businesses, although individual outcomes vary by insurer, property, and other underwriting factors.

A Citywide Commitment to Community Safety

The City of Soledad extends its sincere appreciation to the Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and City staff for their continued commitment to investing in public safety. Their support has helped ensure that the Fire Department has the personnel, equipment, and infrastructure necessary to strengthen emergency response and protect the community.

Achieving an ISO Class 2 rating is an important milestone for Soledad. It recognizes the dedication of the City’s employees, the strategic use of public safety resources, and the shared commitment to building a safer and more resilient community.

The City of Soledad and the Soledad Fire Department remain committed to continuous improvement, responsible investment, and providing the highest possible level of fire protection and emergency services to the residents and businesses they serve.