Blounts Creek Volunteer Fire Department has a new rating, one that could lower homeowners’ insurance premiums for those with residences near the department.

After a July inspection by the Office of Sate Fire Marshal, the department was notified last month that its 9s rating had been elevated to a 6/9E rating, meaning within a five-mile radius of the physical location of Blounts Creek VFD now have a 6 rating; those within five- to six-mile radius are considered 9E. The ratings could significantly lower homeowners’ insurance rates in the fire district, according to a press release from the OSFM.

“It was a big improvement for us because that was the first time we had a improved on it in many, many years — as far back as I can remember,” said Blounts Creek Fire Chief David Williams.

The inspection leading to the new rating was more detailed than usual: over a three-day period, inspectors looked at training records, paperwork, checked equipment, and had the department — along with the Aurora and Chocowinity volunteer departments that provide mutual aid with Blounts Creek — perform water-shuttle and fire-attack operations timed by inspectors.

For Williams, the better ratings are a reflection of the continuous training the department does. Every Monday, members of the 31-man volunteer roster meet for training, participate in live burns on other occasions and have recently been trained to respond with Chocowinity EMS to perform “pit-crew” CPR during cardiac emergencies on the south side of the river. The training, according to Williams, has paid off for the department and, now, the surrounding community.

“I’d like to congratulate Chief Williams for his department’s performance and for the hard work of all the department members,” State Fire Marshal Wayne Goodwin wrote in an email. “The citizens in the Blounts Creek Fire District should rest easy knowing they have a fine group of firefighters protecting them and their property in case of an emergency.”

Homeowners in the Blounts Creek fire district should contact their insurance companies to determine if the new rating will lower their premiums. The new rating takes effect on Jan. 1, 2015.

Those interested in becoming a member of the Blounts Creek VFD can call 252-322-5242 or email bcvfd61@hotmail.com.