Santa Barbara County kicks off fire season early

By Associated Press

Dry vegetation and warm weather are forcing Santa Barbara County fire officials to declare an early start of the wildfire season.

The season usually starts at the end of May or early June, but county and local fire departments say Monday will be the official start.

County fire Capt. Eli Iskow says swiftly drying grass and a continuing warm weather forecast concerns firefighters.

It means a dramatic first-alarm response: four engine companies, a battalion chief, water tender, helicopter, hand crews and two bulldozers. During the off-season, one or two engines are dispatched on first-alarm brush blazes.

Additionally, burn permits are suspended and campfire permits are required in Los Padres National Forest.