Drone, Infrared Cameras Aid Rescue of Stranded Surfer in Santa Barbara

Fire department used high-tech tools to locate and retrieve surfer clinging to lobster trap buoy

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Santa Barbara County Fire Department used infrared drones and other advanced technology to rescue a 26-year-old surfer who was swept away from Haskell's Beach and clung to a lobster trap buoy for 20-30 minutes before being safely returned to shore.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the value of new technologies like infrared cameras and drones in enabling faster and more effective emergency response, especially in challenging ocean rescue situations where visibility and access can be limited.

The details

After a 26-year-old male surfer lost his board and was swept away about a quarter-mile from the Haskell's Beach shore due to high surf, he grabbed onto a lobster trap buoy to await rescue. His friend immediately reported him missing, and the fire department used aerial drones equipped with infrared cameras to locate the surfer on the buoy. They also utilized a floodlight to guide water rescuers to the surfer's position, and within 30 minutes the individual was safely escorted back to shore with no need for medical attention.

  • At 6:28 p.m. on February 10, 2026, the surfer was reported missing near Haskell's Beach in Goleta.
  • The surfer was on the buoy for 20-30 minutes before being rescued.

The players

Santa Barbara County Fire Department

The local fire department that conducted the rescue operation using drones, infrared cameras, and other advanced technology.

26-year-old male surfer

The individual who was swept away from the shore and clung to a lobster trap buoy until being rescued by the fire department.

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What’s next

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department plans to continue utilizing advanced technologies like drones and infrared cameras to enhance their emergency response capabilities, especially for challenging ocean rescues.

The takeaway

This incident demonstrates how new technologies can dramatically improve public safety and emergency response, enabling faster and more effective rescues even in difficult conditions. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department's use of drones and infrared cameras proved crucial in locating and retrieving the stranded surfer.