Prince Harry kicked off 2026 with a high-risk visit to the front lines of California’s ongoing wildfire crisis, demonstrating his continued commitment to supporting first responders. Earlier this month, the Duke of Sussex toured fire stations in the Santa Barbara area, near his residence with Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
During the visit, Harry met with Watch Duty co-founder and CEO John Mills and observed the realities of modern emergency response firsthand. Firefighters showcased their brush trucks, rescue ATVs, and thermal search-and-rescue drones, providing the Duke with an inside look at the tools and techniques used to combat wildfires.
In addition, firefighters explained how the Watch Duty real-time mapping and alert app has become a critical tool for emergency response, helping first responders make split-second decisions during crises. The app’s official Instagram account shared a carousel of photos from the visit, highlighting Harry’s engagement with the team and his hands-on approach to understanding emergency operations.
The post also noted, “Firefighters shared that Watch Duty plays a huge role in their work, and we are proud to provide them with the best information. When seconds count, giving first responders access to clear, real-time insights can shape decisions that protect our neighborhoods.”
The account further acknowledged a partnership with Archewell Philanthropies, which supported Watch Duty during the devastating Los Angeles wildfires of 2025, emphasizing Harry’s ongoing involvement in championing firefighter safety.
This visit adds to Prince Harry’s series of firefighter-focused engagements across California, reflecting his dedication to emergency response initiatives and his commitment to supporting communities affected by natural disasters.