Grand Rapids Fire Department earns third International Accreditation, remains only accredited city fire department in Michigan

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Fire Department (GRFD) has earned reaccreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), marking its third straight accreditation and extending its status through 2031. GRFD is one of only 127 fire agencies worldwide to earn both CFAI accreditation and an ISO Class 1 rating.

This accreditation comes as GRFD enters the second year of its FY 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, which is centered on their mission of: “The Grand Rapids Fire Department values all people by saving lives, protecting property, and responding to the needs of our entire community.” Under the guiding vision of becoming “the safest midsized city in the country,” the department has structured its work into key pillars—Response, Training, Prevention, Wellness, and Support Services—each staffed with leadership teams and supported by SMART goals aligned to its mission, vision, and values: Honesty, Integrity, Loyalty, Teamwork, Excellence.

Fire Chief Brad Brown indicated that Grand Rapids homeowners may benefit financially from the Grand Rapids Fire Department’s ISO Class 1 rating, as insurance companies may consider a community’s fire protection classification when setting homeowners insurance premiums. While savings vary by insurance carrier and individual policy, maintaining the highest ISO classification can help residents access more favorable insurance rates. GRFD’s CFAI accreditation complements that designation by demonstrating the department’s commitment to nationally recognized professional standards and continuous improvement.

The reaccreditation follows a detailed review of GRFD’s operations, including a self-assessment, documentation review, onsite evaluation and a final hearing before the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).

“This shows our commitment to providing excellent service,” City Manager Mark Washington said. “Grand Rapids is the only city in Michigan with an internationally accredited and ISO class 1 fire department, and that reflects the hard work and dedication of our firefighters.”

The peer review team provided 18 recommendations to help guide improvements over the next five years.

Chief Brown said the recommendations will strengthen the department. “These recommendations give us a clear path forward,” the chief said. “We will work through each one and continue to improve how we serve this community.”

He also thanked Assistant Chief Edward Braman, Captain Langlois, A/Lt. C. Haisma, and PMRS Baszler for leading the accreditation process.

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