Sea-Tac Fire Hits PC 1 | CEO Perspective

“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence." 

– Vince Lombardi

Our mission at WSRB is rooted in service—to the insurance industry, to communities across Washington state, and most importantly, to the people who rely on strong fire protection to safeguard property.

That’s why I’m pleased to announce that the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has achieved a Protection Class (PC) 1 rating. This is the highest possible designation in our grading system - an honor currently earned by only one other community in the state.

To be clear, a PC 1 isn’t earned easily. It reflects the most exemplary fire protection capabilities available in a community, measured against rigorous standards including:

• Water supply and hydrant infrastructure
• Fire department staffing, equipment, and training
• Emergency communication systems
• Fire prevention efforts and code enforcement

The Port of Seattle excelled across all four categories. From its well-distributed water infrastructure and high-performing fire department to its advanced emergency dispatch capabilities and dedication to fire prevention, the port’s performance reflects a deep commitment to protecting a complex environment.

While there were improvements in many of the items we evaluate, two areas showed significant improvement:

1. The fire department made substantial strides in its firefighter training program, expanding the type and amount of training being provided.
2. Fire code inspections of existing occupancies saw notable increases in frequency, ensuring a safer built environment for tenants, visitors, and airport personnel alike.

What this means for the Seattle-Tacoma Airport community:

Properties within the airport will now be eligible for the PC 1 classification. For some tenants, this may result in reduced fire insurance premiums. For all, it represents peace of mind: the assurance that top-tier fire protection is in place.

The airport’s final evaluation tells the story behind the rating:

• Water Supply: 94%
• Fire Department: 89%
• Emergency Communications: 88%
• Fire Safety Control: 89%

Each category is scored independently and then combined into a final calculation. In this case, the outcome was clear: PC 1.

Related:
Seattle Fire Department Improves Ability
to Save Lives and Property

It’s important to note that this survey was not conducted for property loss prevention or for life safety purposes. Rather, the purpose was to gather the information needed to determine a WSRB Protection Class relevant for fire insurance rating. Our methodology is grounded in nationally recognized standards, including those developed by NFPA, ICC, and AWWA, aimed at ensuring objectivity, fairness, and consistency in our evaluations.

I want to thank Fire Chief Krause and Assistant Chief Nuttall for their leadership and extend my congratulations to everyone who helped make this milestone possible.

As Eric Cunningham, our Public Protection Analyst who conducted the evaluation, shared:

It was a pleasure to work with the Port of Seattle Fire Department and Assistant Chief Nuttal for this grading. It was the fire department's hard work over the last 5 years that earned a Protection Class 1.  

Congratulations again to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. You've earned your place at the top.