PINK HILL — Earlier this week, North Carolina Insurance Commissioner and State Fire  Marshal Mike Causey announced the Pink Hill and Cherry Tree fire districts completed their  routine inspection and received and improved their listed rating. Both districts improved their  ratings to Class 4. 

The N.C. Response Rating System (NCRRS) ranges from one (highest) to 10 (not recognized as  a certified fire department by the state). While lower ratings do not necessarily indicate poor  service, a higher rating does suggest that a department is overall better equipped to respond to  fires in its district. Higher ratings can also significantly lower homeowner’s insurance rates in  that fire district. 

The inspection, conducted by officials with the Department of Insurance Office of State Fire  Marshal, is required on a regular basis as part of the NCRRS. Among other things, the routine inspections look for proper staffing levels, sufficient equipment, proper maintenance of  equipment, communications capabilities and availability of a water source. 

“I'd like to congratulate Chief (William) Heath for the department's performance and for the hard  work of all the department members,” Commissioner Causey said. “The citizens in the town of  these districts should rest easy knowing they have a fine group of firefighters protecting them  and their property in case of an emergency.” 

Before the recent inspection, Cherry Hill and Pink Hill were Class 6. 

“On behalf of the Lenoir County Fire Marshal’s Office, we would like to congratulate Pink Hill  Volunteer Fire Department on their hard work and dedication in lowering their insurance rating  classification,” Lenoir County Emergency Planner Samuel Kornegay said. “The evaluation and  determination of the new rating is an example of the professional working relationships that  

occur between the community, local and state agencies.”

Heath praised the members of his department for their hard work. 

“During my tenure at Pink Hill Fire Department, I have risen through the ranks,” he said. “Now  as chief, I can’t say enough about the support I have received from the members of this  department, town and community. I am extremely humbled and proud to say all the credit goes  to the hard-working men and women of the Pink Hill Fire Department.  

“The collaboration of all agencies — local and state — contributed to successful outcome.”