Long Beach Fire Department improves fire rating, bringing benefits to residents

LONG BEACH, Miss. (WLOX) - Fire safety is a never-ending quest for improvement, and residents of Long Beach are reaping the rewards.

The Long Beach Fire Department has had its ISO fire rating upgraded from a five to a four.

Fire ratings measure a department’s ability to respond to and put out fires. They are measured on a scale from one to 10, with a lower number being a better rating.

Fire Chief Griff Skellie says that the improved rating is largely due to improved infrastructure, as well as a continued effort from firefighters to improve their skills.

“That’s what we’re working towards. We’re not going to remain stagnant as a four. We’re proud of it, but we’re not going to stop continue working towards a three,” Chief Skellie said.

Residents will see immediate benefits from the impr