Lake Country Mayor Blair Ireland took a few moments to recognize the one-year anniversary of the Grouse Complex wildfire during council鈥檚 Aug. 20 meeting.

鈥淚 want to express our gratitude to the firefighters and first responders who came from near and far to protect us,鈥� Ireland said. 鈥淭heir bravery saved our homes and lives.鈥�

The mayor noted that the ongoing drought and recent high temperatures in the Okanagan are reminders that everyone needs to be prepared and vigilant.

鈥淚 encourage everyone to check out FireSmart to make your home more wildfire resistant. Make sure you have an emergency plan and build an emergency kit.鈥�

He also highlighted the importance of the community pulling together.

鈥淚 was proud of our community and how we stepped up to look after each other. That鈥檚 a sign of a great community, which we have.鈥�

The Grouse Complex comprised of the Clarke Creek wildfire in Lake Country, the Walroy Lake fire in 琉璃神社 and the McDougall Creek wildfire in West 琉璃神社.

Information on emergency preparedness can be found on the , and local emergency notifications are available on the .