The Escondido Fire Department is proud to announce that Insurance Services Office (ISO)-the organization responsible for evaluating fire protection capabilities nationwide-has officially confirmed the department has achieved a Class 1/1X Public Protection Classification (PPC), the highest rating possible for fire protection services in the United States.

This elite designation reflects the department’s excellence in emergency response capabilities, training, fire prevention, water supply, communications, and community risk reduction. Fewer than 1% of fire departments nationwide earn a Class 1 rating, placing Escondido among the top-performing fire agencies in the country.

ISO’s Class 1 Review Team has formally approved and locked in the rating following their comprehensive evaluation. The survey now proceeds to final processing, and ISO will issue the formal letters and detailed report within two to three months. These documents will be shared with the Fire Chief, city leadership, and posted to ISO’s Mitigate platform upon completion.

“This achievement represents years of dedication from every division within the Escondido Fire Department,” said Deputy Fire Chief Tyler Batson. “It showcases our commitment to serve the public and to safeguard the community from the impact of fire, medical, and environmental emergencies through education, emergency services, and enforcement.”

The Class 1/1X rating may offer potential insurance benefits for residents and businesses, depending on insurer guidelines. Community members are encouraged to contact their insurance providers for details.

The department’s next PPC review is scheduled for 2031, with ISO to coordinate outreach in advance of the process.

For more information contact Interim Fire Chief Tyler Batson at tyler.batson@escondido.gov.