Mississauga’s firefighting service has been recognized as the best in Ontario and among the top five in Canada by a national organization that provides fire protection data for the insurance industry.

For the first time, Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services received the highest possible rating from Verisk Canada’s Fire Underwriters Survey, a nationwide initiative that measures the adequacy of fire protection in communities across Canada. This survey, used by over 90% of property and casualty insurers, was highlighted by City of Mississauga officials in a news release on Tuesday.

Mississauga’s firefighting service earned a Public Fire Protection Classification (PFPC) 1 rating in the survey—the highest grade possible, which no other municipal fire service in Ontario has achieved. Only four other fire departments across Canada have reached this classification, according to city officials.

A PFPC 1 rating indicates the “ideal or highest level of public fire protection,” while Class 10 represents the lack of effective fire protection.

Mississauga’s previous top score was PFPC 2.

City officials credited improvements in the mechanical division, training centre, fire prevention, and communication centre for the advancement in classification.

Mississauga Fire Chief Deryn Rizzi described the top grade as an honor, praising the work that goes on both behind the scenes and on the front lines.

“This achievement reflects the ongoing efforts of our staff, management, and community leaders who continue to support our fire service and prioritize response times, enhance public education, advance mandatory firefighter certification training, and ensure compliance with fire codes,” she stated.

Mayor Carolyn Parrish emphasized the benefits of the rating for residents and businesses alike.

“This accomplishment sets a standard for public safety in Mississauga,” she noted. “In these economically challenging times, investors and property owners can be assured that insurers see Mississauga as a safe place, which could lead to potential savings.”

The Fire Underwriters Survey helps the insurance industry determine appropriate rates for residential and commercial property insurance by providing Fire Insurance Grades tailored for Canadian insurers.

City officials also noted the economic advantages of this achievement for property and business owners.

“Businesses are more likely to invest in a municipality with strong fire protection standards, and property owners may see savings on insurance premiums,” they explained. “A high rating increases investor confidence in the safety of their properties, such as warehouses, retail locations, and offices in Mississauga.”

The survey provides essential data for fire insurance statistical work and underwriting purposes for subscribing insurance companies.