Prince Harry has made his first public appearance of 2026, visiting emergency response facilities in California to encourage firefighters as the state prepares for future wildfire seasons.

Prince Harry, the youngest son of King Charles III, was seen visiting fire stations in the Santa Barbara area. The Duke of Sussex took time to engage with frontline responders, highlighting the importance of preparedness as wildfire risks continue to loom across California.

The visit marked Harry’s first public engagement of the year and took place close to his Montecito residence.

John Mills, co-founder and chief executive officer of Watch Duty, shared photos from the visit on social media, thanking Prince Harry for his continued support of emergency responders.

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“We’re proud to partner with Archewell Philanthropies, early supporters of Watch Duty during the devastating LA fires in 2025, and excited to keep building support for firefighters on the front lines,” Mills wrote.

Touring emergency equipment and technology

The released images show Prince Harry inspecting brush trucks, rescue all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and thermal search-and-rescue drones used during wildfire and emergency operations.

Firefighters shared that Watch Duty plays a significant role in their work by providing timely and accurate information, helping crews respond more effectively during emergencies.

During the visit, Harry spent time with firefighters, learning firsthand about the realities and pressures involved in emergency response and disaster preparedness.

William’s brother had earlier toured the facilities alongside Mills this month as part of his engagement with the wildfire tracking organisation.

The engagement took place near Prince Harry’s Montecito home, where he lives with his wife Meghan Markle and their two children — Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four.