The classification remains 5 within the city, however, the qualifying distance of within 1,000 feet from a fire hydrant has also changed to five miles.

The new ratings will go into effect on June 1.

Jim Myers, co-owner of Sills Insurance, said affected residents will likely see lower insurance premiums, but it is difficult to quantify how much because so many variables go into determining an insurance rate. The ISO rating is only one of several factors, he added.

Funds helped the department to buy 1.75-inch hose and nozzles for all fire apparatus, local fire officials said. The new equipment is larger than the 1.5-inch hose and nozzles previously in service.

The new equipment, whose implementation is being overseen by fire Lt. Jeff Gootman, is designed to improve water flow from attack lines and enhance firefighting ability. Firefighters have been training in the use of the new equipment.

Officials noted that with larger homes built in town over the last decade or so, increased water flow is needed to help extinguish fires in such structures, which is facilitated by the new hoses and nozzles.

Porter Fire Chief Carter Johnson wanted to provide the training since it will be an invaluable tool a crew will need every day when making calls in the community.

"The second leading cause of death for firefighters is headed to and from calls," Johnson said. "It's important to think of the impact if there is a wreck with the apparatus -- it affects families, the community and the station. This is a major responsibility of our organization to get to and from scenes and calls safely."

Each of the firefighters had the chance to complete the training ride through an obstacle course on FD International's specially designed truck. The course was designed to provide hands-on, high-stress, real-life driver training in a safe and controlled environment.