May 17, 2022 at 08:20 PM

MONTECITO, CA – The Santa Barbara County Fire Department, in conjunction with all local fire jurisdictions including Montecito, has declared May 20 as the start of the 2022 High Fire Season for all areas of Santa Barbara County.

During High Fire Season, Montecito Fire Department increases staffing ahead of critical fire weather conditions and dispatches additional resources to wildland fire incidents. Additionally, all burn permits in Santa Barbara County are suspended during High Fire Season.

Our Fire Prevention Bureau continues to help community members improve defensible space at homes throughout Montecito. Our Neighborhood Chipping and Vent Retrofit programs are ongoing as part of our holistic approach to wildfire preparedness and prevention. Information about the programs and how to participate is available here. We encourage Montecito residents to schedule a complimentary defensible space survey now by calling 805-969-7762.

 As firefighters prepare for a busy and challenging fire season, we ask the community to join us in preparing for wildfire by reviewing your evacuation plan and building an emergency supply kit. The “Ready! Set! Go!” guide thoroughly outlines how to prepare your family and home for wildfire. To access the “Ready! Set! Go!” guide and other wildfire preparedness information, click here.

For questions or media inquiries, contact Fire Chief Kevin Taylor at ktaylor@montecitofire.com.