Inspection confirms high performance across Southport, Caswell Beach, and rural service areas
City of Southport, NC — The Office of the State Fire Marshal has awarded the Southport Fire District an improved insurance rating following a routine inspection completed on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The review—required under the North Carolina Response Rating System (NCRRS)—evaluates a department’s staffing, equipment, maintenance, communications, and water supply capabilities.
All four areas served by the Southport Fire Department earned a Class 2 rating, one of the highest possible designations
Under the NCRRS, ratings range from Class 1 (the highest) to Class 10 (not recognized as a certified fire department). Many rural departments fall into the 9s category, making a Class 2 rating a significant achievement. Stronger ratings often translate into lower homeowners’ insurance premiums for residents within the district.
State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor commended Chief Charles A. Drew and the Southport Fire Department for their performance and the professionalism demonstrated throughout the inspection.
Chief Drew emphasized the benefit to the community, stating that residents of Southport, Caswell Beach, and the department’s rural service areas “can take comfort in knowing this highly capable team of firefighters is safeguarding their lives and property in the event of an emergency.”
OSFM inspections are mandated by state law for departments serving populations of 100,000 or fewer. These evaluations measure training, equipment readiness, and overall emergency response capability—key components in ensuring effective fire protection across North Carolina.
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