Many Santa Barbarans have voiced legitimate concerns about our local state of readiness in terms of plans, personnel and public safety capabilities as the catastrophic situation unfolds in Los Angeles County.

As recent history shows, Santa Barbara is no stranger to these disasters, and our preparation and planning evolves with every experience.

During these events, our multiagency response and coordination have been impressive and effective, but citizen cooperation is a key element in saving lives and property.

Our police and fire departments will provide as much advance warning as possible, and issue evacuation orders only when necessary.

It is essential that these directives are heeded to maximize our ability to respond. More detailed information is forthcoming, but your part in this procedure is of utmost importance.

We live in an incredibly beautiful place. One of the prices we pay for that is constant exposure to natural disaster from fire, earthquake and extreme weather events.

Each of us has an inherent duty to be prepared. The city focuses on these issues continually, provides periodic safety briefings and, upon request, performs neighborhood safety briefings as well.

Please help protect what we love.