Burn Ban Violation Fire Extinguished by Lake Rayburn Fire Department

Firefighters with the Lake Rayburn Volunteer Fire Department responded Wednesday evening to a report of smoke behind a residence in the Brookeland area and quickly extinguished a fire that was burning during the current county wide burn ban.

According to the department, crews were dispatched at 6:41 p.m. to a residence off County Road 212 in Brookeland after smoke was reported coming from behind the home.

The department responded with six firefighters and two apparatus.

Upon arrival, firefighters located an active burn pile in the backyard area behind the residence. The homeowner was advised that Jasper County is currently under an active burn ban, and crews immediately extinguished the fire.

Although the flames had remained contained to the immediate burn area, firefighters observed that the fire had already begun creeping outward from the original burn site, raising concerns due to the region’s current dry conditions.

Fire officials say situations like this can quickly escalate if winds pick up or conditions worsen.

“With current dry conditions, fires like this can spread rapidly and become much more serious,” the department noted in its report.

The Lake Rayburn Volunteer Fire Department is reminding residents that outdoor burning is not permitted while the burn ban remains in effect. The restrictions are designed to reduce wildfire risk and help protect homes, property, and emergency responders.

Officials encourage residents to follow the burn ban and report any suspicious smoke or fire activity immediately.

The department added that it remains committed to protecting the community and surrounding areas.

“We are proud to serve and protect the Lake Rayburn area,” the department stated.