Harris County ESD 48 Welcomes New Captain of Community Risk Reduction and Public Information Officer
Raintree Village residents living in the rapidly growing area served by Harris County Emergency Services District No. 48 (HCESD 48) are seeing an important shift in public safety leadership this fall. On September 3, ESD 48 leadership formally announced that Ja’Nae Breda has joined the department as the new Captain of Community Risk Reduction (CRR) and Public Information Officer (PIO)—a dual role designed to strengthen both prevention and public awareness across the district.
Breda arrives from the Atlanta, Georgia area with a strong background in fire and EMS operations as well as community engagement. She now leads ESD 48’s Community Risk Reduction Team—the group tasked with preventing emergencies before they happen—while also serving as the primary Public Information Officer, responsible for keeping the public informed during both routine operations and emergency situations.
“We are confident that Ja’Nae’s knowledge, skills, and dedication will greatly contribute to the success of our department and the continued service we provide to our community,” HCESD 48 leadership shared in a public statement. “Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Ja’Nae as she begins this new chapter with Harris County ESD No. 48.”
What is Community Risk Reduction?
Community Risk Reduction (CRR) is a proactive approach that focuses on identifying and addressing risks within the community before they escalate into emergencies. Under Captain Breda’s leadership, the CRR team will work directly with schools, neighborhoods, businesses, and partner agencies to deliver public education, safety inspections, and community outreach programs. From fire prevention efforts to fall risk awareness for seniors, CRR’s goal is to enhance life, health, and safety for every resident in the district.
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The Role of Public Information Officer (PIO)
In addition to leading CRR efforts, Captain Breda will also serve as the face and voice of the district during emergencies, disasters, and public updates. As the Public Information Officer, she will manage communications through social media, press releases, and community events—ensuring residents stay informed and connected.
This is particularly vital in a district like HCESD 48, which covers over 29 square miles across western Harris County and serves approximately 160,000 residents. With major roads like I-10 and the Grand Parkway, a growing number of mid-rise buildings, more than 20 Katy ISD schools, and a blend of neighborhoods and commercial zones, having a strong communicator and risk reduction strategist at the helm is key to keeping residents—including those in Raintree Village—safe and well-informed.
A Mission That Matters
Harris County ESD 48 operates out of four strategically placed fire stations, providing 24/7 emergency medical services, fire suppression, and search and rescue operations. The department is made up of over 130 paid and volunteer professionals, dedicated to serving the public with integrity, compassion, and commitment.
By appointing a leader with dual expertise in emergency services and community engagement, the district is doubling down on its mission to deliver "excellent community service through all-hazard emergency response and preventive services."
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What This Means for Residents
For those living in the neighborhoods surrounding Katy-Fort Bend Road, Clay Road, Westheimer Parkway, and Barker Road, this leadership update means even more focus on prevention, education, and clear communication—whether it's fire safety for kids, CPR classes, hurricane preparedness tips, or real-time emergency alerts.
With Captain Breda on board, HCESD 48 is poised to become an even stronger advocate for community safety. Her arrival marks a new chapter in the district’s vision to be “the most innovative and well-respected leader in community risk reduction, emergency service delivery, and operational effectiveness.”
To learn more about HCESD 48 community programs and safety information, visit hcesd48.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
