New Lake Rayburn Fire Station Improves Coverage, Insurance Ratings for Rural Jasper County

Photo Courtesy of Lake Rayburn Fire Department

BROOKELAND, Texas — The Lake Rayburn Fire Department has announced the opening of Station No. 2, a major improvement to emergency response coverage that enhances fire protection for rural Jasper County residents and may lead to lower homeowners insurance rates for hundreds of properties.

Officials confirmed the station became operational in late 2025 and is currently responding to emergency calls.

Station No. 2 is located at 4925 FM 1007 in Brookeland and strengthens fire protection within the department’s existing 911 service district.

Improved Coverage Within the Existing District

According to the department, approximately 750 addresses in Jasper County that were previously outside standard response distance are now within five road miles of a fire station, a key benchmark used by insurance carriers and fire protection rating systems.

The opening of Station No. 2 significantly improves response distance, coverage, and service reliability within the existing district.

With the station now in service, the area has achieved an 8B fire protection rating, which may qualify some homeowners for reduced insurance premiums compared to properties in unrated or higher-risk fire districts.

Fire departments rated 8B meet enhanced standards for rural fire protection, including tanker operations, trained personnel, and modern equipment, even in areas without traditional fire hydrants.

Residents are encouraged to contact their insurance agents to ensure their policies reflect the improved fire protection classification.

Regional Benefits

In addition to Jasper County improvements, an automatic aid agreement with the Pineland Volunteer Fire Department may also extend improved fire protection to some nearby Sabine County addresses.

Funding, Partnerships, and Project Leadership

The Lake Rayburn Fire Department credited Jasper County Emergency Services District 4, along with ESD 4 President Sam Job, for budgeting and funding support that made the project possible.

Officials said Station No. 2 was completed under budget, thanks to assistance and cooperation from multiple local partners, including:

• Jasper County Commissioner Kevin Holloway

• Trey Pumphrey Septic Services

• Jimmy Aud and Son

• Morehead Construction

• Deep East Texas Electric Cooperative

• The project was led by Lake Rayburn Fire Department Assistant Chief Randy Bridges.

Community Impact

Fire officials emphasized that the opening of Station No. 2 improves emergency preparedness, shortens response times, and strengthens overall community safety across the Lake Rayburn area.

Fire officials thanked community partners and residents for their continued support, noting the station reflects strong cooperation between local agencies, contractors, and volunteers.