Division Chief Michael Scott with Los Padres National Forest discusses the start of 2023's high fire season with Santa Barbara County officials. | Credit: Anika Duncan

As rain covered the county this morning, Santa Barbara officially entered the “2023 High Fire Season.” Alongside the announcement of heightened risk came the cessation of all burn permits, increased resources for fire departments, and a commitment to public awareness. Speaking at a press conference under the protection of the County Fire Department roof, 1st District Supervisor Das Williams was quick to address the precipitation outside: “Don’t be confused by a drizzly day in June. We could have a big season before us.”

Part of preparing for that possible big season means adopting High Fire Season status, which allows the county to receive the state funds necessary for an increased response. This will take the form of a seasonal workforce that includes air crews, new fire engines, and more boots on the ground. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department is working with multiple partners at the city, county, and state level, and credit this collective effort with their ability to respond effectively. “Fire has no political boundary. It affects everywhere and everyone. That’s why we come and work together. it wouldn’t be possible otherwise,” said John Owens, chief for CalFire’s San Luis Obispo Unit.

It’s not just up to the officials to keep the community safe. “It’s a shared responsibility; we all need to do everything in our power to prevent these fires,” said 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann. The speakers all stressed the importance of clearing defensible space around homes and being hyper-aware of fire-causing activities, which can be as simple as starting a car too close to dry vegetation. The fire department will be conducting property inspections at urban interface areas to make sure that zone regulations are being followed.

Santa Barbara County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig emphasized the Firewise program, which is focused on community preparedness and response. “Go get your neighbor’s numbers; it’s that easy,” said 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps.

For more information on wildfire safety, visit SBCFire.com and the Firewise page at NFPA.com, and sign up for emergency alerts at ReadySBC.org.

The goal of defensible space is to decrease the amount of flammable items closer to a home. More at sbcfire.com/defensible-space-program.

Login

Please note this login is to submit events or press releases. Use this page here to login for your Independent subscription

Not a member? Sign up here.