Could you help your neighbors in need?

MERRAG! (pronounced Mirage) is a network of trained volunteers who work and live in the Montecito area. Members are prepared to respond to a community disaster during the critical first 72 hours following an event. Since 1987, the mutual “self-help” organization has been serving Montecito’s 9,000 residents with the guidance and support of the Montecito Fire, Water and Sanitary Districts.

Find out more about MERRAG and how you can help yourself help MERRAG.

Preparing for Earthquakes

One of the most frightening and destructive phenomena of nature is a severe earthquake and its terrible after effects.

Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently, and without warning at any time of the day or night. If an earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause many deaths and injuries and extensive property damage.

Although there are no guarantees of safety during an earthquake, identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can save lives and significantly reduce injuries and property damage.

How can I protect myself from an earthquake?

What to do before an earthquake

What to do during an earthquake

What to do after an earthquake

Additional Earthquake Preparedness Resources

Avoiding Earthquake Damage

Earthquake Country

USGS - Current Earthquake Data

Southern California Seismic Network

Earthquake information from the California Office of Emergency Services