The department previously held a Class 5 rating but a July inspection by the Office of the State Fire Marshal resulted in a better rating. The lower rating will likely result in lower fire insurance premiums for homeowners and commercial property owners within town limits as well as those who live in the West and East Canton fire districts.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal conducts inspections of all fire departments to ensure compliance with criteria established by the Department of Insurance. Factors that determine a coverage area’s fire insurance rating include adequate staffing, sufficient equipment and communications capabilities. This criterion dictates a minimum level of fire protection and qualifies homeowners throughout the state to be eligible to receive reduced insurance premiums. Classifications range from 1 to 9 — Class 1 representing the most standards met.

The Canton Fire Department, under the leadership of Chief Derek Littlejohn, worked tirelessly to prepare for the July inspection and their efforts paid off.  

“I would like to thank all fire department personnel, the town manager, all town officials and personnel, and all fire departments and county personnel that assisted with the inspection,” Littlejohn said.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Chief Littlejohn and his team for looking beyond the present and stretching themselves to reach a new level of excellence,” said Canton town Manager Seth Hendler-Voss. “Maintaining a Class 5 rating would have been an achievement in and of itself. Achieving a 4 is transformative.”