Boston-based Safety Insurance Group has reported net income for the third quarter of $18.4 million, compared to $22.9 million, for the same period in 2007, a 19.7 percent decrease.

Net income for the nine months ended Sept. 30 was $58.3 million, compared to $70.5 million for the comparable 2007 period.

On Nov. 3, the board of directors approved and declared a quarterly cash dividend of [Article].40 per share, payable on Dec. 15 to shareholders of record at the close of business on Dec. 1.