The Woodlands Fire Department recently received a Fire Suppression Rating of 1 from the Insurance Service Office, a New York-based advisory organization. A score of 1 is the highest ISO rating a fire department can achieve.

Less than 60 communities and cities in the United States have achieved an ISO rating of 1, according to The Woodlands Township.

"The township has been working toward this goal for many years," said township chairman Bruce Tough.

Better ISO scores could mean lower insurance premiums for homeowners and businesses, Tough said.

The construction of fire stations 6, 7 and 8, as well as the emergency training center on I-45 helped contribute to the department's perfect score.

"This accomplishment is an example of the board's and the community's commitment toward providing exemplary public safety service," township Fire Chief Alan Benson said.

ISO ratings are a gauge of fire protection capabilities of fire departments. ISO analyzes data and information for a particular fire department, including things such as training aids for fire staff, distances between fire hydrants and response times.

According to the township, most U.S. business and home insurers use ISO ratings in calculating premiums. The price of fire insurance in a community with a good ISO rating is substantially lower, the township reported.