Full Notification

The National Weather Service (NWS) has called for a Red Flag Warning to be in effect from late tonight through Sunday morning across the Santa Barbara South Coast, including Montecito. In addition to the Red Flag Warning, the NWS predicts a moderate to strong sundowner wind event tonight into Sunday morning with sustained winds between 30-40 mph and gusts of 50-60 mph.

In anticipation of the Red Flag Warning and the predicted weather event, Montecito Fire has increased staffing levels in the District with one (1) Type 6 Brush engine, one (1) Patrol, and one (1) additional Dispatcher.

Montecito residents should take this time to evaluate their preparedness levels. We recommend using the Ready! Set! Go! Program:

• Get READY! Create a defensible home. We will provide a free fire safety inspection for Montecito residents and make recommendations on how to make them more fire safe. Use extreme caution when operating spark of flame producing machinery in hazardous grass or brush areas.

• Get SET! Prepare your family. Review you evacuation plan with your family and discuss what you will do if a wildland fire occurs. You should identify at least two ways out of your neighborhood. If you are asked to evacuate by fire or law enforcement officials, leave the area immediately – your prompt action can save your life.

• GO Early! If a wildland fire is approaching, leave early! By leaving early, you will give your family the best chance of surviving a wildfire. You also help firefighters by keeping roads clear of congestion, enabling them to move more freely and do their job.

The Ready! Set! Go! brochure is available on our website (www.montecitofire.com) and at all Montecito Fire Stations.

While this is true all the time, we remind you to immediately report any signs of smoke by calling 911, and report any suspicious persons or vehicles to law enforcement.

In the event of a major incident in Montecito, go to www.montecitofire.com, or tune in to AM 1610 for additional information and situational updates.