Louisiana Fire Department Works to Maintain Class 1 Fire Rating

The Monroe Fire Department is spending millions to add new fire trucks, better equipment and improve communication in hopes of keeping its Class 1 fire rating when recertification rolls around in 2016.

The News-Star reports the department plans to spend more than $3 million to purchase new safety equipment, two pumpers, one rescue truck, one aerial truck and establish a new communication center.

The fire department will be re-evaluated by the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana in 2016.

The fire department is rated every five years.

Officials say the Class 1 rating has saved residents and businesses millions on their insurance bills.