Explore the County’s Emergency Operations Center

Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when a wildfire, earthquake, or other emergency threatens our community? This August, the Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management is opening the doors of its Emergency Operations Center for two open houses, and it’s a rare chance to see the hub where local agencies coordinate during a crisis. Whether you're a longtime Goleta resident or new to the area, this is a great opportunity to learn how our county prepares for the unexpected—and how you can be better prepared yourself.

The open houses are part of National Emergency Management Awareness Month, and they're a perfect reminder that preparedness starts at home. Goleta's hillsides and canyons make us vulnerable to fire, and our coastline means we need to think about tsunamis and flooding, too. Stop by, meet the emergency managers, and ask those questions you've been meaning to ask. It’s a small step that can make a big difference when every second counts. For details, check out the original story from Goleta Monarch Press.