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In today's world, security is an essential component of life. For individuals, that could mean having a firearm available and a plan of action in place if a break-in or other criminal act occurs. Many business owners in California, however, need more than a simple plan. They need a reliable, proven security guard company in Santa Barbara, CA, that can provide them with the armed or unarmed security needed to stay safe and keep criminals at bay. After all, the reality of running a successful business in California is that nefarious actors will do everything in their power to take what's yours. California's overall violent crime rate increased by 1.7%, from 495 crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022 to 503 in 2023. While property crime fell marginally, violent crimes are up in just about every county of The Golden State.
The next minute, they're up at gunpoint and robbed outside of their storefront. At best, the individual loses money. At worst, they get injured or even die. We've all seen similar on the news. It makes sense, then, that more and more business owners and executives are relying on security guards to protect dispensaries, sporting events, concerts, corporate events, and more.
The peace of mind that comes from having security services is both immediate and enduring. There's simply no substitute for the physical and emotional reassurance of knowing that you are protected-whether it's yourself, your family, your valuables, or your business and its employees. Security officers play a crucial role in providing this sense of safety with their specialized skills, especially in tense or threatening situations. If you're looking for an industry-leading security guard company, look no further than Capital security guard.
- The Capital Security guard Difference
- Top 3 Reasons Why Customer Service is So Important for Security
- Security Guards for Events in Santa Barbara, CA
- Security Guards for Cannabis Companies in Santa Barbara, CA
- How Do Armed and Unarmed Security Guards Help Protect Your Cannabis Investment?
- How Do You Know if You Need Security Guards for Your Dispensary?
- Reliable Security Guard Protection is a Phone Call Away
- Security Guard Patrol is Just a Phone Call Away
6+ Years of Experiences2018 - 2024
The Capital Security guard Difference
Capital Security guard is the top choice for security services in California, and for good reason. We share your commitment to keeping our community safe. As your go-to security guard company, we offer foolproof executive protection, impenetrable capital security services, and the peace of mind that you and your business will remain safe.
Armed Security
Unarmed Security
Security Guards for Dispensaries in Santa Barbara, CA
Security Guards for Events
Security Guards for Concerts
Security Guards for Sporting Events
Security Guards for Executives
Security Guards for Corporate Events
Security Guards for Hospitals
After-Hours Patrols and Alarm Response
Much More
Need to train new security guards or help implement an evacuation plan for your home or business? We can help with that too. Give our office a call today to learn more about the Capital Security guard difference.
Security Guards You Can Rely On
As one of the most trusted security guard companies in California, you can rest easy knowing we've got your back when you need us most. Like Stearns Wharf in San Francisco, we stand tall for our clients and make it a point to provide them with the most dependable, full-service security guard solutions available.
Our commercial and residential clients refer their friends and business connections to our security agency because they know we always:
Remain Calm and Stay in Control
Our security guards give you the confidence needed to run your business safely and safeguard your assets.
Have Eyes Everywhere
Nothing gets past our armed and unarmed security guards in California. Period.
Prioritize Privacy
When you're running a successful business or are trying to live in peace, privacy is paramount. That's why we make every effort to help you feel secure, safe, and protected while keeping your privacy top-of-mind.
Use Innovative Security Strategies
Our impenetrable security and strategy solutions don't just deter criminals and bad-faith actors - they prevent crime from happening in the first place.
Provide Dependable Protection
We know you want to protect yourself, your business, and your quality of life. We're here to help ensure that happens 24/7, 365 days a year.
Flexible & Responsive
We believe customer service and ongoing communication are key aspects of providing you with a safe environment. In fact, our security guards make it a point to work with your environment, whether it's residential, commercial, industrial, or something in the entertainment industry. That way, you can do what you need to do to keep being successful while we provide you with full security coverage.
Need to train new security guards or help implement an evacuation plan for your home or business? We can help with that too. Give our office a call today to learn more about the Capital Security guard difference.
Highly Trained Professionals
Capital Security guard only employs the best of the best when it comes to unarmed and armed security. In fact, each security guard we hire is trained specifically to remain vigilant and to keep you safe. Every team member at our security guard company in citname, CA, is carefully screened. We hire only the most conscientious and professional candidates before sending them through our vigorous training program.
Our unique security training program includes:
- Use of Force Training
- Firearms Training
- Oral Communication Skills
- Protocol and Strategies for Reporting Suspicious Activity or Persons
Top 3 Reasons Why Customer Service is So Important for Security
One of the reasons why so many clients choose Capital Security guard over other security guard companies in Santa Barbara, CA, is that we put a strong emphasis on customer service. We provide exceptional service not only from our office when clients call but also in the field when our security guards are at work. Here are three ways that our security guards use customer service to create safer environments.
1. Clear Communication
An important aspect of excellent customer service involves cultivating robust communication skills. Security personnel frequently engage with both employees and co-workers. A competent security guard needs to communicate effectively with individuals across various organizational levels, ranging from entry-level staff to the company's president or owner.
2. Staying Calm in Contentious Situations
Customer service skills are essential for effectively resolving conflicts, particularly for security guards who often face high-pressure situations. Their ability to remain calm and communicate clearly can significantly influence the outcome of these encounters. That's why our security guard company in Santa Barbara, CA instructs security guards to implement de-escalation techniques. This approach equips them to handle disputes in a manner that reduces tension and fosters cooperation. By doing so, we ensure that potentially challenging situations are addressed swiftly and amicably.
3. Positive Public Impressions
When security guards excel in customer service, they become true ambassadors for the companies they represent. At Capital Security guard, our security guards recognize that they play an important role in shaping how the public views our clients' businesses and properties. Whether it's guiding a visitor to their destination or calmly managing a challenging situation, delivering excellent customer service makes clients and visitors feel both welcomed and valued.
Now that you know more about our security guard company and what sets us apart from others in our field, you're probably anxious to learn about our areas of focus. While we offer a wide range of services, from crowd control and alarm response to access control and perimeter security, some of our most popular services are included below.
Security Guards for Events in Santa Barbara, CA
When you're looking for the best steak in town, you don't go by your local fast-food joint and expect to get anything great. Instead, you go to bouchon Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara, CA. When you're looking for a large event to attend, you don't go to a small city in California - you go to LA.
From Coachella to the Academy Awards, Los Angeles and the greater California have more high-profile events than there are palm trees. If you're a guest, your goal is to enjoy the event without worrying about potential threats. On the other hand, if you're an organizer, your priority is to ensure that the event is safeguarded from nefarious individuals and criminal activities. And that, in a nutshell, encapsulates why event organizers hire professional security guard companies like Capital Security guard. Our security guards are specially trained to handle large crowds at events and know precisely how to manage situations to prevent panic from breaking out.
Below are a few of the basic measures that we take at Capital Security guard for event security:
- Each security guard for your event is well trained in how to enforce the appropriate safety and security measures in place.
- All staff are expertly trained to provide medical assistance or contact the appropriate third party.
- All security personnel understand your venue's layout, emergency exit locations, and possible wrong points of entry.
To enhance your event security, we'll first assess the level of security required for your event. Striking the right balance is crucial; while excessive security can make guests feel uneasy, insufficient measures may leave them vulnerable.
- Security Guards for Sporting Events
- Security Guards for Concerts
- Security Guards for Corporate Events
- Security Guards for Business Conferences
- Security Guards for Enthusiast Events Like Comic Con
- More
If you're unsure what type of security you might need for your event, try reaching out to organizations that have hosted similar events to gain insight from their experiences. You can also consult with an event security company like Capital Security guard, which can provide you with a full picture of what to expect. We collaborate with all event performers who hire us. That way, we can identify your security needs and provide you with armed or unarmed guards to keep your event safe.
Security Guards for Cannabis Companies in Santa Barbara, CA
Running a cannabis dispensary can be both hugely rewarding and sketchy. While there's a huge demand for legally grown cannabis, those who own and operate the stores that sell the plant are often at risk. We're talking vandalism, theft, assault, and other crimes that threaten both customers and employees.
While investing in high-quality security systems can help address these issues, they don't always reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses. This brings us to an important question: Should you hire a security guard for your cannabis dispensary? The short answer is yes. That's true even if you're working there on a daily basis. Why? The truth is that it's very difficult to prevent theft entirely.
Failure to take security measures in your dispensary seriously can lead to significant losses, which can happen quickly. With the increase in daytime crime, potential thieves can easily enter your property and steal products - and that's just the start.
How Do Armed and Unarmed Security Guards Help Protect Your Cannabis Investment?
Well-trained security guards play a pivotal role in preventing the theft of money and property at your dispensary. They help reduce vandalism and protect against assaults. A guard is skilled in spotting suspicious behavior and addressing potential issues before they escalate. It's important to note that criminals are often deterred by the presence of armed security personnel. Plus, because guards collaborate with local law enforcement, it becomes easier to resolve any crimes that may occur at your cannabis store.
Unlike security cameras, guards provide a more effective visual deterrent. They ensure that everyone adheres to the established rules and regulations. Any misconduct by employees or customers can have serious repercussions for your cannabis dispensary. A trained guard not only prevents unwanted behavior but can also take disciplinary measures or legal action if required.
How Do You Know if You Need Security Guards for Your Dispensary?
If you own a cannabis shop in California, chances are you've worked long hours and invested a lot of money into making it successful. But that success can come at a steep price, especially when criminals see what you're selling. Sure, you've installed locks on your doors and taken basic steps to prevent crime. But modern-day criminals are savvy and know how to get around standard types of security. That's where security guards for cannabis growers in Santa Barbara, CA, start to make a lot of sense.
Keep the following red flags in mind. If your dispensary is growing, it could be time to hire security.
- Quick Growth or Increase in Income
- High Foot Traffic
- Lots of Public Exposure and Media Attention
- Location of Your Cannabis Company
- Physical Accessibility
Reliable Security Guard Protection is a Phone Call Away
If you're wondering whether a security guard is appropriate for your needs, call our office today. We'll take as much time as needed to learn about your challenges, goals, and overall needs. Once we know more about your situation, we can offer viable security guard for consideration.
When you're a high-level executive or celebrity, living a normal life can be hard. It's not like you can wake up and decide to go to Shoreline Park in San Francisco without people noticing - and that's incredibly frustrating. Luckily, you can still do normal things that average people do - but you may have to take a few additional steps to make sure you and your family are safe.
At Capital Security guard, we recognize that each executive client has needs as unique as the threats they encounter. That's why we focus on delivering an elite level of personalized executive protection services for high-profile individuals. Our approach ensures top-notch protection that seamlessly integrates into your lifestyle while respecting your security and privacy preferences.
Whether you require round-the-clock security or need bodyguard services for a specific event, our highly-trained team of executive security professionals is equipped with the expertise and skills necessary to exceed your expectations. This commitment provides you with peace of mind, allowing you to feel secure while living life on your own terms.
Some of the top benefits of executive security from Capital Security guard include:
- Having a security team for a CEO or other executive can free up time and reduce the amount of energy spent on security-related incidents.
- Executive security from a firm like Capital Security guard can protect organizations and individuals from hazards like cyber threats, physical threats, and reputational threats.
- Bringing in a team of executive security can improve a company's reputation and send a signal to investors, partners, and clients that the company is trustworthy.
- Executive security guards help reduce the chances of being physically assaulted in public.
- Executive security can also help you address ongoing personal security and privacy issues.
Security Guard Patrol is Just a Phone Call Away
If you've been searching endlessly for "security guards for hire near me in Santa Barbara, CA," all that time and effort has paid off. With decades of combined experience, Capital Security guard has assembled a team of expert security guards dedicated to delivering solutions that surpass industry benchmarks. Whether you need security guards for a local event or protection for a high-profile individual, our security guard company is equipped to provide you with trustworthy protection in The Golden State and beyond. Contact our headquarters today to learn more about how our armed and unarmed guards can meet your goals and adapt visibility to fit your unique environment.
What clients say about Us!
unarmed security for J C
patrol services for Wesley Samms
alarm response for Leo Romero
cannabis security for CASA de ESPAÑOL
live video monitoring for OSHIMA
security trailers for Hayk Hayko
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cannabis compliance for Charlie Marano
Armed security for Jehan Zohrab
unarmed security for Michael Mui
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Latest News in Santa Barbara, CA
Gauchos Carry Momentum into Home Tilts with Tritons and Titans
Blake Ekelerhttps://ucsbgauchos.com/news/2025/1/21/womens-basketball-gauchos-carry-momentum-into-home-tilts-with-tritons-and-titans.aspx
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The UC Santa Barbara Women's Basketball team (10-7, 4-3 Big West) returns home with momentum on their side after a major upset win over UC Davis on the road last Saturday. The Gauchos' defeat of the Aggies earned them a split last week, but they will look to go one step further this week, hosting the UC San Diego Tritons (8-11, 4-3 Big West) this Thursday and the Cal State Fullerton Titans (2-16, 0-8 Big West) on Saturday.LAST TIME OUT Santa Barbara has split another wee...
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The UC Santa Barbara Women's Basketball team (10-7, 4-3 Big West) returns home with momentum on their side after a major upset win over UC Davis on the road last Saturday. The Gauchos' defeat of the Aggies earned them a split last week, but they will look to go one step further this week, hosting the UC San Diego Tritons (8-11, 4-3 Big West) this Thursday and the Cal State Fullerton Titans (2-16, 0-8 Big West) on Saturday.
LAST TIME OUT Santa Barbara has split another week of conference play, falling to UC Riverside and defeating UC Davis this past weekend. In the turning point game against the Aggies, the Gauchos showed growth following their two-match-loss streak. Jessica Grant was a trailblazer in this matchup, posting a new career high in points with 19 while going 7-for-8 on field goals. Zoe Borter and Alyssa Marin helped keep the offense balanced as well, with Borter notching 16 points and 8 boards while Marin added 11 points for her 15th double-digit game of the season. Skylar Burke led the Gauchos on the glass yet again, securing nine rebounds in the 63-50 win.
TACKLING THE TRITONS Santa Barbara beat UC San Diego on the road in their first meeting of the year, but the Tritons come into Thursday's game with the same 4-3 conference record as the Gauchos, thanks to wins over Cal State Bakersfield, Cal State Fullerton, UC Riverside and an upset of Long Beach State. Cal Poly and UC Irvine are the other Big West teams to hand UC San Diego a loss so far this year.
The Tritons rank first in the conference in turnover margin and steals, posting a margin of 4.79 and averaging 11.89 steals per game. UC San Diego also displays success in the team field goal percentage column with a position of third in the conference shooting at a .396.
Leading the Tritons, Sumayah Sugapong ranks first in the conference in both steals and assists averaging 2.6 and 3.9 respectively. She also leads her team in scoring with 12.8 points per game and in free throws, averaging 2.7 per contest. Sabrina Ma follows closely behind, ranking second in the conference for steals with 2.3 per game, and excelling from distance, standing third in three-point field goals per game with 2.3 and fourth in three-point field goal percentage at .400. Kayanna Spriggs leads the team's defense, averaging 7.0 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game.
TAKING ON THE TITANS Cal State Fullerton has yet to find success in Big West play, with a record of 0-8 in the conference and 2-16 overall, drawing wins from Chapman University and Bethesda University of California.
The Titans have found success, however, in Big West statistics in terms of 3-point opponent field goal percentage and turnover margin, ranking second and fourth in the conference in these respective categories.
For Cal State Fullerton, Aaliyah Stanton leads the way offensively. She ranks fifth in the conference in scoring while averaging a team-high 14.3 points and 4.6 field goals per game. She also sets the pace in assists for her team, contributing 2.0 per game. Eva Levingston dominates the boards, leading both the conference and her team with an impressive 8.2 rebounds per game. Aixchel Hernandez excels in the paint, ranking second in the conference in both blocked shots with an average of 2.0, and rebounds notching 7.7 per game. Emily Strachan finds success at the line as the team's free-throw leader with a .789 percentage, placing her fourth in the conference.
FOLLOW ALONG The Gauchos and Tritons will tip off at 7 p.m. from the Thunderdome in Santa Barbara, California on Thursday, Jan. 23. UC Santa Barbara will then be back on Saturday, Jan. 18, tipping off against the Titans at 4 p.m. from the Thunderdome. Both games will be live on ESPN+ with live stats available at ucsbgauchos.com/WBBLiveStats.
Bidens Arrive for Another Santa Barbara County Visit
Janene Scully | Noozhawk North County Editorhttps://www.noozhawk.com/bidens-reportedly-plan-santa-barbara-county-visit/
After finishing his four-year term as president of the United States, Joe Biden and his wife appear set to visit the Santa Ynez Valley.The 46th president and former First Lady Jill Biden headed back to the Central Coast following the completion of their duties and attendance at Monday’s inauguration of ...
After finishing his four-year term as president of the United States, Joe Biden and his wife appear set to visit the Santa Ynez Valley.
The 46th president and former First Lady Jill Biden headed back to the Central Coast following the completion of their duties and attendance at Monday’s inauguration of President Donald Trump.
NBC senior White House correspondent Kelly O’Donnell last week first announced the couple’s planned Santa Barbara County visit.
Federal Aviation Administration planning schedules show a VIP flight departing from Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Monday en route to landing at Vandenberg Space Force Base later in the day.
The former first couple could be seen boarding the distinctive blue and white aircraft after the inauguration.
They arrived at Vandenberg late Monday afternoon, where top commanders greeted the couple.
The Boeing VC-25 aircraft, a military version of a Boeing 747, from the presidential fleet reportedly has been dubbed “special air mission.” The designations Air Force One and Air Force Two are reserved for when a sitting president or vice president is on board.
The Bidens visited the Santa Ynez Valley last summer, staying at the ranch of billionaire Joe Kiani, a family friend and a big political donor. Biden’s son, Hunter, reportedly visited the ranch in March 2023.
The Kiani Preserve, which includes a winery, boasts 8,000 acres spanning hills and canyons “in the shadow of Figueroa Mountain.”
The summer visit began in August after Biden spoke at the Democratic National Convention making the case for then-Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
Once expected to accept the Democratic nomination for president, Biden stepped aside in July, saying he believed it would be “in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down.”
He then mostly stayed out of public view during the Santa Ynez Valley trek.
However, there were some brief sightings of various Biden family members, including at The Book Loft in Solvang and Saturday evening Mass at Old Mission Santa Ines.
For that visit, the Bidens arrived at the Santa Barbara Airport and left days later after being taken by helicopter from the Santa Ynez Valley to board Air Force One at Vandenberg.
Gauchos Comeback Falls Short Ending Five Game Winning Streak
University of California, Santa Barbarahttps://ucsbgauchos.com/news/2025/1/18/mens-basketball-gauchos-comeback-falls-short-ending-five-game-winning-streak.aspx
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The UC Santa Barbara Men's Basketball team (12-6, 4-3 Big West) saw their five-game winning streak fall as UC Davis (11-8, 5-3 Big West) came into The Thunderdome and walked away with a 64-60 victory. The Gauchos nearly overcame an 18-point deficit, but ultimately fell.FROM HEAD COACH JOE PASTERNACK "I told our team after Cal Poly that it is all about us being able to play the full 40 minutes, and we did not do that today," said Pasternack. "Until we can put together two great halve...
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The UC Santa Barbara Men's Basketball team (12-6, 4-3 Big West) saw their five-game winning streak fall as UC Davis (11-8, 5-3 Big West) came into The Thunderdome and walked away with a 64-60 victory. The Gauchos nearly overcame an 18-point deficit, but ultimately fell.
FROM HEAD COACH JOE PASTERNACK "I told our team after Cal Poly that it is all about us being able to play the full 40 minutes, and we did not do that today," said Pasternack. "Until we can put together two great halves, we won't be a consistent basketball team."
HOW IT HAPPENED In the first half, UC Santa Barbara started strong with a layup from Kenny Pohto followed by a 3-pointer from Swenson, giving them an early 5-0 lead. Despite their efforts, UC Santa Barbara faced challenges with turnovers, committing nine in the first half, which contributed to the Aggies taking a lead. Pohto was active in the paint, scoring multiple times, but UCD extended their lead to 29-17 by the end of the half, capitalizing on the Gaucho turnovers.
The second half featured a significant scoring run from UC Santa Barbara, highlighted by Colin Smith's three successful 3-pointers, including one at the fast break at 2:05, contributing to a total of 43 points in the half. Kenny Pohto added crucial points from the free-throw line, including two successful free throws at 8:40, while Stephan Swenson provided multiple assists, aiding the team's offensive efforts. Despite the Aggies' attempts to maintain their lead, UC Santa Barbara's bench stepped up significantly, scoring 19 points, leading to a stronger second half for the home team. Despite their second half surge, and overcoming an 18-point deficit, the Gauchos fell for the first time in nearly a month.
LOOKING AT THE NUMBERS
UP NEXT UC Santa Barbara will prepare for a two-game road trip as they begin the tip in La Jolla, California. The Gauchos and Tritons will tip off at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23. For those unable to make the trip the game can be streamed on ESPN+ and it will be broadcast on Spectrum Sportsnet. Live stats will also be available at ucsbgauchos.com/MBBLiveStats.
Santa Barbara County Officials Say to Prepare Now for Future Fires
Giana Magnolihttps://www.noozhawk.com/santa-barbara-county-officials-say-to-prepare-now-for-future-fires/
With the Los Angeles fires on everyone’s minds, Santa Barbara County officials urged residents on Tuesday to prepare for emergencies before disaster strikes.“We really are no stranger to wind-driven vegetation fires,” county Fire Chief Mark Hartwig told the Board of Supervisors.The department learns lessons from fires locally and elsewhere, he sai...
With the Los Angeles fires on everyone’s minds, Santa Barbara County officials urged residents on Tuesday to prepare for emergencies before disaster strikes.
“We really are no stranger to wind-driven vegetation fires,” county Fire Chief Mark Hartwig told the Board of Supervisors.
The department learns lessons from fires locally and elsewhere, he said, and constantly updates its strategy.
During critical fire weather, such as this week, agencies pre-position firefighting equipment in areas that have burned in the past.
“I can’t tell you that we’ll be exactly where we need to be when the next fire hits, but we’ll be close,” he said.
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for the county again this week, and there’s no rain in the forecast. That means the region is going to be dry, and at a higher risk for fires for a while, Hartwig said.
The best time to prepare for an emergency is before an emergency happens, he emphasized.
“If you’re getting ready when fire weather hits, or you know you need to go, it’s too late,” Hartwig said. “Ready, Set, Go! is more than a tagline; take it seriously, make your neighbors take it seriously, and in weather like this, be hypervigilant.
“The Ready part is a bag next to the door. We know it’s dry, we know we should be ready; get a bag next to your door. The Set part is when it’s critical fire weather, like now, keep your head on a swivel and be aware, look at your surroundings.
“Don’t necessarily wait to go until somebody tells you; that is a decision you make for yourself.”
Many of the evacuations in the Palisades Fire were self-evacuations and neighbors notifying neighbors, Hartwig added.
“We’ll do everything we can — life safety, getting people out of the way in the first moments of a vegetation fire and make them safe,” Hartwig said. “But in reality, it’s your responsibility and we can’t possibly, and as we know now from the LA fires, we can’t possibly get to every home.
“My job is to do everything we can each and every day to make sure we lose nothing, and we’ve been tested here. In the Thomas Fire, there were just amazing firefights that went on in Montecito and Mission Canyon, with wind-driven fire and firefighters taking stands near structures.”
Kelly Hubbard, director of the Office of Emergency Management, said the county is enhancing its alerting systems and working on an evacuation study.
OEM wants its partners — such as cities and fire departments — to use the same evacuation mapping program so they can quickly post maps when evacuation orders and warnings are issued, Hubbard said.
The county also will start an informational campaign to “know your way out” since some communities have only a few access roads. In addition, most people drive to their homes only one or two ways, even if there are other ways in and out, she said.
“How would you get out of your community if the normal road is blocked, even if an accident occurs?” she said.
Supervisor Joan Hartmann said the Los Angeles fires are a “wake-up call” to the dangers of fires impacting urban areas in addition to the wildland-urban interface.
Home-hardening practices can help protect residences from fires and embers, but people in cities may not be as aware of the risks, she said.
“I think we need to move that way even in urban areas,” she said. “This is not business as usual. This is really something new.”
About 14% of residents are signed up for Santa Barbara County emergency alerts through ReadySBC.org. Sign up here, and choose the geographic areas for which to receive alerts.
Emergency Information and Preparedness Resources
Sign up for emergency alerts from Santa Barbara County
Go to ReadySBC.org for county information on how to prepare for emergencies
Ready Set Go: How to prepare for wildfire and evacuation and pack a go-bag
What Do You Need to Know? What Should Everyone Else Know?
Ask Noozhawk your emergency-related questions and help us create a useful resource guide about preparing for and responding to wildfires, floods and other emergencies.
Email us at news@noozhawk.com or contact Executive Editor Giana Magnoli at gmagnoli@noozhawk.com.
Tagged: Local News
Giana Magnoli, Noozhawk Executive Editor
Noozhawk executive editor Giana Magnoli can be reached at gmagnoli@noozhawk.com.
Santa Barbara County at risk of power shutoff following LA fires
Jack Dindiahttps://dailynexus.com/2025-01-14/santa-barbara-county-at-risk-of-power-shutoff-following-la-fires/
CORRECTION [1/15/2024, 4:05 p.m.]: A previous version of this article stated that moderate wind impacts were seen on Jan. 11. The article has been corrected to state that moderate air quality impacts were seen.Santa Barbara County is at risk of a power outage due to the Santa Ana winds across the Central and South Coast, which have fanned the ongoing blazes in Los Angeles, according to Southern California Edison. The county is not in immediate danger of a fire, but red flag warnings are in place in the Santa Ynez Mountains....
CORRECTION [1/15/2024, 4:05 p.m.]: A previous version of this article stated that moderate wind impacts were seen on Jan. 11. The article has been corrected to state that moderate air quality impacts were seen.
Santa Barbara County is at risk of a power outage due to the Santa Ana winds across the Central and South Coast, which have fanned the ongoing blazes in Los Angeles, according to Southern California Edison. The county is not in immediate danger of a fire, but red flag warnings are in place in the Santa Ynez Mountains.
About 60 Santa Barbara County (SBC) customers of the electric utility company Southern California Edison (SCE) are currently without power and 2,417 are at risk of a power shut-off throughout areas in SBC, according to SCE spokesperson Jeff Manford. In total, over 55,000 customers are without power in six counties, with the number of outages rising based on winds.
Red flag warnings are in place, meaning there is an increased risk of fire danger, in the Santa Ynez Mountains due to strong Santa Ana winds, which are experiencing gusts ranging from 40 to 60 mph.
“A Red Flag Warning usually goes out for critical fire weather conditions, so that’s usually low humidity and gusty winds. That means if a fire gets started, it could spread rapidly,” National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Courtney Carpenter said. “Certainly pay attention to the weather forecast as it goes.”
Winds in Santa Barbara are currently light, ranging from 5 to 15 mph with higher elevations experiencing gusts up to 30 mph, according to Carpenter, who is aiding with calls in the Los Angeles area. The wind levels are expected to stay the same throughout the week.
The number of outages doubled within 24 hours in Southern California between Jan. 12 and 13 due to the fires, and 11,000 more are without power due to other causes, including damages.
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), which is a temporary power shutoff in specific areas to prevent risks of fires, was initiated in general areas to reduce hazards that could come from airborne debris, according to Manford. Hazardous objects include tumbleweeds, palm fronds and trampolines. Other factors that may initiate a PSPS are dry vegetation on the ground, expected prevailing wind and terrain, among others. No PSPS has been initiated in Isla Vista or Goleta as of now.
Currently, air quality in Goleta and Santa Barbara is “good” according to Lyz Bantilan, Public Information Officer for the SBC Air Pollution Control District. Bantilan said moderate air quality impacts were seen on Jan. 11 as expected, but were short-lived and at a “moderate level.”
Bantilan said that in the past, fires from “other parts of the state” have transported smoke to the Santa Barbara area. She advised people to regularly check in on the air quality readings on the EPA Fire & Smoke map over concerns of potential smoke or ash traveling from fires.
“We’re thinking of the people in the Los Angeles area who are dealing with all the destruction and the smoke from those fires, and hope things improve for them soon,” Bantilan said.
Residents can check the power outage statuses at SCE’s outage status map and wind levels at the National Weather Service’s website. The Nexus will continue to report on this topic as more information becomes available.
A version of this article appeared on p.1 of the Jan. 16, 2025 edition of the Daily Nexus.
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