Last summer, the McDougall Creek wildfire devastated the community of West Kelowna, B.C. First responders from local firehalls, police, ambulance crews, BC wildland firefighters, and emergency support services were praised for their efforts in fighting the fire and helping with evacuations. The Okanagan Responders Gratitude event was held to officially thank and honor these individuals for their hard work and dedication. The event was organized by volunteers, local businesses, and organizations who spent months planning the celebration. West Kelowna fire chief Jason Brolund, who became the face of the blaze, expressed gratitude for the community’s strength and resilience, as well as acknowledging the losses suffered, including 13 firefighters who lost their homes.
Brolund also paid tribute to the BC wildland firefighters who worked tirelessly throughout a difficult summer, which saw the loss of six firefighters, including four who were killed in a tragic accident on Highway 1 near Kamloops. The McDougall Creek wildfire was one of nearly 2,300 wildfires that ravaged the province last year and was one of the most destructive. It scorched 13,500 hectares, destroyed 191 buildings, and took weeks to get under control. The community of West Kelowna came together to show their support and gratitude for the responders who worked tirelessly to protect their homes and lives.
West Kelowna’s mayor, Gord Milson, commended the efforts of both the responders and the community, stating that the city has become more caring than ever before. The attendance at Saturday’s gathering demonstrated the overwhelming support and appreciation for the first responders who risked their lives to battle the wildfire. Brolund emphasized the importance of being prepared for future wildfire seasons by taking steps to “firesmart” your home and make it more resilient to potential fires. He stressed the significance of community involvement in wildfire prevention and safety measures, noting that simple actions can make a significant difference in protecting homes and lives in the event of a wildfire.
The Okanagan Responders Gratitude event served as an opportunity for the community to come together and express their gratitude towards the firefighters, police, ambulance crews, and other first responders who worked tirelessly during the McDougall Creek wildfire. The event highlighted the heroic efforts and sacrifices made by these individuals, as well as the community’s resilience in the face of adversity. Brolund’s heartfelt recognition of the fallen firefighters and his call to action for the public to be proactive in wildfire prevention resonated with the attendees, who expressed their support and appreciation for the first responders.
Overall, the Okanagan Responders Gratitude event in West Kelowna was a heartfelt and touching tribute to the first responders who bravely fought the McDougall Creek wildfire. The event served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these individuals, as well as the importance of community support and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. The outpouring of support from the community and the words of gratitude from Mayor Milson and Fire Chief Brolund showcased the strength and resilience of the West Kelowna community. By coming together to honor and thank the first responders, the community demonstrated its appreciation and solidarity in the face of adversity.
