It broke my heart to see our communities devastated by largely preventable fires last year. We need to learn from this terrible experience and work together to make sure this never happens again. The truth is many fire prevention measures were neglected: we need more clearing out of overgrowth, real fire breaks around residences and businesses, and ensure power lines are maintained correctly. We must make sure that the victims of the fires are given all the help they need to recover and get their lives back on track, and we must hold those who cause the fires accountable for the lost lives and property damage.