The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has announced that a statewide initiative to improve fire protection classifications has delivered approximately $22 million in savings for homeowners during 2024.
Through the efforts of its Fire Protection Classification Division, the Department has worked closely with local authorities to enhance Public Protection Classification (PPC™) ratings, resulting in measurable reductions in insurance premiums and strengthened community safety standards.
Upgraded ratings bring direct financial benefits
The OID confirmed that around 20 per cent of Oklahoma’s more than 900 fire protection areas, spanning all 77 counties, saw improvements to their PPC ratings this year. These upgrades equate to annual premium discounts of between 4 and 8 per cent for residents living in the improved fire protection zones.
The classification ratings are based on Verisk’s Fire Suppression Rating Schedule, which evaluates a community’s fire prevention and response capabilities. The assessments use standards drawn from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA), with classes ranging from 1 (superior protection) to 10 (limited recognised fire suppression capability).
Commissioner praises the Division’s success
Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready commended the Division’s work, describing the initiative as a tangible benefit to Oklahoma communities.
“I’m immensely proud of the work our Fire Protection Classification Division has done for Oklahoma communities,” said Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “All of these efforts culminate in dollars and cents savings for homeowners.”
Under Mulready’s leadership, the number of Fire Protection Class 1 areas—the highest possible rating—has risen from three to nine, reflecting a substantial enhancement in the state’s firefighting readiness and infrastructure quality.
Coordinated effort between public safety partners
The Fire Protection Classification Division collaborates with fire departments, community leaders, 911 emergency facilities, and water service providers to help localities prepare for Verisk’s rigorous evaluations.
By identifying and addressing weaknesses in water supply, response times, and communication systems, the Division enables communities to strengthen their overall emergency preparedness and reduce fire risk. These improvements not only help lower insurance premiums but also contribute to greater resilience and property protection.
Small operational changes—such as upgrading hydrant systems, improving record-keeping, or refining coordination between emergency services—have delivered measurable improvements in fire protection capability. The initiative has become a model of how technical collaboration can yield both safety and economic dividends.
Economic value beyond insurance savings
Beyond direct homeowner benefits, improved PPC ratings have a broader economic impact. Communities with stronger fire protection systems are often more appealing to insurers, developers, and businesses, enhancing local investment opportunities and property values.
The OID emphasised that such progress strengthens Oklahoma’s economic foundations while protecting lives and assets. For insurance providers, better fire classification data also allows for more accurate risk assessments and competitive pricing structures.
Continued commitment to improvement
Since taking office, Commissioner Mulready has made modernising the state’s fire protection systems a priority. The OID says its Division’s role as a facilitator between state and local stakeholders has been key to this success.
By continuing to offer guidance, training, and technical assistance, the Department aims to help more communities reach higher PPC ratings in the coming years.
The OID’s long-term goal is to expand access to lower insurance costs while enhancing public safety, ensuring that Oklahoma residents continue to see tangible returns from the state’s investment in fire protection.
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