FRANKLIN, La. — The Franklin Fire Department has achieved a Class 4 Fire Rating from the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana (PIAL), marking the highest rating the department has ever received. The recognition applies to both Fire District 5A, which includes the City of Franklin, and Fire District 5, the parish area protected by the Franklin Fire Department.
Fire Chief Chuck Bourgeois announced the achievement following the department’s 2025 PIAL Rating Review, which evaluates fire departments every five years. The review measures fire prevention, emergency response, training, and overall community safety.
> “This rating recognizes our department’s commitment to protecting lives and property through constant improvement and dedication,” said Chief Bourgeois. “It’s a reflection of our firefighters, city officials, and community working together.”
The PIAL system scores departments on a scale of 1 to 10 — with 1 being the best and 10 indicating minimal fire protection. A Class 4 rating reflects exceptional performance in several key areas:
Emergency Communications: 911 call-taking equipment, dispatch operations, and protocols.
Fire Department Operations: Staffing, training, response capabilities, and operational readiness.
Water Supply: System maintenance, hydrant testing, and water flow capacity.
Community Risk Reduction: Fire prevention, inspections, and investigations.
Following the 2020 evaluation, the Franklin Fire Department and city leaders launched an improvement plan that included the construction of a new fire training facility, replacement of over 90 hydrants, and the purchase of new fire engines. The training facility was completed and operational in 2024, meeting the criteria for the latest grading year.
The department also began replacing outdated and inoperable hydrants through grant funding — a process now about 60% complete — and ordered two new engines to replace older vehicles. Additional staffing increases are planned for the upcoming year.
Chief Bourgeois credited Mayor Eugene Foulcard, the City Council, and department staff for their dedication and teamwork.
> “This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the city’s support and the hard work of our firefighters,” said Bourgeois. “It’s truly a community effort that improves safety for everyone.”
Residents within Franklin’s fire protection district could see potential benefits in insurance rates due to the improved classification.