On Sept. 18, the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office and Insurance Services Office, or ISO, awarded the Buda Fire Department/Hays County Emergency Services District #8 a Class 1 rating, the top measure of the quality and effectiveness of fire protection.

Of more than 49,000 communities surveyed nationally the Buda Fire Department is 1 of only 300 to be given the top grade and only 1 of 63 in Texas. The Class 1 ISO rating may qualify businesses and residences for lower insurance rates, according to the city of Buda.

Home and business owners wishing to obtain a letter of proof to send to insurance providers can visit www.budafire.org.