Isla Vista Hosts Crisis Preparedness Event: Fire Safety, Evacuation Tips, and Emergency Planning

ISLA VISTA, Calif. — Fire safety threats are a familiar concern for many in Southern California, where evacuees often have only minutes to be ready, set, and go. Being prepared is crucial, which is why the Isla Vista Community Services District hosted a Crisis Preparedness and Resilience Planning Session.

The session provided an opportunity for students and community members to ask questions and share concerns about potential natural disasters in Isla Vista.

“Life safety is more important to us than a structure fire, so we will divert and try to get in there, but we may not be able to because it’s too late,” said Capt. Scott Safechuck, spokesman for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

Speakers shared essential tips, such as clearing brush from properties and familiarizing yourself with your neighborhood.

“Defensible space really is eliminating the fuel around your property so that as the fire approaches and those embers start spotting and casting out in front of the fire, it doesn’t have fuel to consume,” Safechuck explained.

“Knowing additional ways to get in and out of your property and your community is important so that if you need to evacuate, you have those pathways in mind,” said Kelly Hubbard, director of Santa Barbara County Emergency Management.

Speakers at the event also strongly encouraged attendees to register for ReadySBC alerts to stay informed about emergencies throughout the county.

When asked if they had a go-bag or emergency plan ready, some Isla Vista residents were caught off guard.

“I honestly hadn’t thought of it up here. I felt like most of the danger was in L.A.,” said community member Maya Danovitch. “I considered myself safe up here, but I think it’s probably a good idea.”

“I will say I’ve looked into what items would be most helpful in an emergency,” said community member Ethan Bertrand.

Officials emphasized the importance of considering all types of natural disasters when creating a plan—not just fires but also earthquakes and severe flooding.