40 Years of Community Service

Arson Watch member standing next to his car with an Arson Watch sign and looking at his the Arson Watch field guide
Three Arson Watch members patrolling on mountain bikes
Historic image from the 1980s with Arson Watch co-founder Allen Emerson on duty in a van
Quote by AW member Randi who said “Agencies come in and do heroic work. But we know this terrain the way you only can when you have driven it a thousand times. That’s what we bring."
County of Los Angeles citation recognizing Arson Watch for its contribution during the 2025 Franklin fire.
Arson Watch volunteers speaking with a resident at a community safety fair
Arson Watch member on patrol looking across the mountains through binoculars
Topanga Arson Watch team meeting amd visit at the TCEP command center
Arson Watch display of various gear, signage and photos in the Topanga Community Library window
Arson Watch volunteers on mountain bike patrol
Arson Watch members sitting in an Arson Watch booth at a local safety fair
Malibu Arson Watch member smiling with Jay Leno
Arson Watch volunteer installing a “Patrolled by Arson Watch” sign
Arson Watch member standing with Smokey the Bear at a safety fair
Arson Watch volunteers participating in the 2026 Topanga Days Parade
Arson Watch volunteer in gear on patrol, standing next to her vehicle with ‘rson Watch signage
Red Jeep with Arson Watch signage parked with thick wildfire smoke on the horizon
City of Malibu citation recognizing Arson Watch for its support during the 2025 Frankline Fire.

What Volunteers Say

  • I wanted to do something real — not just prepare, but actively protect. Patrolling with people who know these mountains is exactly that.

    Will A | 2023

  • I joined to give back to the open spaces that feed my spirit and to stay connected to the mountains, wildlife and community I deeply care about.

    Michelle C. | 2025

  • After enough close calls, you stop waiting for someone else to act. This is my neighborhood. My neighbors. Showing up is just what you do.

    Brody | 2024

  • I stepped up because protecting the Santa Monica Mountains felt urgent - and practical community service out in the field was the right fit.

    Scott | 2021

  • We live in such a beautiful place, and it feels important to be available to help when the winds blow, fires burn, and our community needs help. Each wildfire teaches us more about how to better live in harmony with our incredible mountain ecosystem.

    Rosi | 1987

  • Community members who know our mountain roads are an incredible resource to agencies and residents alike.

    Will C | 2008

  • Our local sheriff's station covers 185 square miles — with just two roving patrol cars during a typical shift. We're vetted, trained volunteers who extend their reach. We're the eyes that know what normal looks like out here.

    Lisa | 2019

  • This is the BEST group of people. My participation in Arson Watch inspired me to do even more for large animal fire preparedness. We all have to take responsibility.

    Roisin | 2025

Every role matters. Join the Watch.

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Every role matters. Join the Watch. —