Homeowners in many areas of Bowen Island that are not currently considered hydrant protected by their insurance provider may now be eligible for improved fire insurance classification following the accreditation of Bowen Island Fire Rescue’s Superior Tanker Shuttle Service.
Fire Underwriters Survey has officially accredited Bowen Island Fire Station #1 and Fire Station #2 for the delivery of Superior Tanker Shuttle Service, effective May 12, 2026. The accreditation recognizes the department’s ability to provide a reliable firefighting water supply to properties located beyond traditional hydrant service areas.
Fire Underwriters Survey advises insurers that communities with accredited Superior Tanker Shuttle Service can be recognized as having hydrant-protected equivalency for insurance grading purposes. This means some residential properties that were previously considered outside hydrant-protected areas may now qualify for a better fire protection classification.
“Achieving this accreditation is a significant accomplishment for Bowen Island Fire Rescue and reflects the training, equipment, planning, and operational readiness of our firefighters,” said Bowen Island Fire Chief, Aaron Hanen. “Most importantly, it provides recognition of the level of fire protection service available to many residents across Bowen Island who are not served by municipal hydrants.”
The accreditation applies to eligible residential properties located within eight kilometres by road of an accredited Bowen Island fire station and within five kilometres by road of a recognized water supply point.
While insurance providers make their own underwriting decisions, residents whose homes are not currently classified as hydrant protected are encouraged to contact their insurance company or broker to determine whether the new accreditation may affect their property’s fire insurance rating.
Superior Tanker Shuttle Service accreditation is awarded only to fire departments that demonstrate their ability to deliver sustained firefighting water supplies in areas without hydrants. The evaluation includes equipment, staffing, training, water supply locations, and operational performance.
Fire Underwriters Survey has provided fire protection information and risk assessment services to the Canadian insurance industry for more than a century. The accreditation will be reflected in the Canadian Fire Insurance Grading Index used by insurers across Canada.
Residents seeking more information about Superior Tanker Shuttle Service accreditation can contact Bowen Island Fire Rescue or speak directly with their insurance provider or broker.
Further information, including copies of the certificates, the Letter of Accreditation, and the Letter of Recognition to Insurers, can be found by visiting: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/superior-tanker-shuttle-service-accreditation/
Questions? Contact Bowen Island Fire Rescue’s non-emergency line at 604-947-9324 or email fire@bimbc.ca.