The Cortes Island Fire Department has achieved full accreditation for Superior Tanker Shuttle Service, marking a major milestone in local fire protection that could also lead to lower home-insurance premiums for eligible property owners.

The Strathcona Regional District says the accreditation recognizes the department’s ability to deliver a reliable and continuous water supply to fire scenes in areas without municipal hydrants.

That enhanced level of protection may improve insurance-protection grades for qualifying properties, potentially reducing home-insurance costs.

To fall within the accredited coverage area, a property must be:

• Within eight kilometres by road of either the Mansons Landing or Whaletown fire hall; and
• Within five kilometres by road of one of three approved water-supply points: the two fire halls or the water-tank site at 448 Sutil Point Road.

Residents who believe their property falls within those boundaries are encouraged to contact their insurance provider, advise it of the new accreditation and ask whether their fire-protection classification and premium can be updated.

Insurance savings are not guaranteed. Individual providers will determine eligibility and premiums, and any potential reduction will vary depending on the property and insurer.

With much of Cortes Island lacking municipal fire hydrants, the department relies on tanker trucks to transport water from approved sources to fire scenes.

Fire Chief Eli McKenty says the accreditation is the result of years of hard work, dedication and commitment from the island’s volunteer firefighters.

The Regional District says achieving the designation required years of planning, equipment investments, infrastructure improvements and hundreds of hours of training.

The department will continue exploring opportunities to expand the accredited coverage area, subject to future infrastructure improvements and investment.

For more details visit Strathcona Regional District.