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Shasta County Cow Fire reaches 600 acres | Update

The sheriff's office said South Cow Creek Road is open to residents only at this time.

SHASTA COUNTY, Calif. — A fire fight is underway in Shasta County as the so-called Cow Fire reaches 600 acres, according to the Shasta County Sheriff's Office.

Cal Fire said the fire is off Highway 44 and South Cow Creek Road, southeast of Millville. The fire is currently at 25% containment.

The Shasta County Sheriff's Office said South Cow Creek Road is currently open to residents only and that the evacuation center is closing. 

Fire crews remain at the scene.

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Wildfire Preps

According to Cal Fire, 2020 was one of the most severe fire seasons on record as 9,917 wildfires burned 4.2 million acres. Over 9,000 structures were destroyed, and 31 people (civilians and firefighters) were killed. 

California also experienced its first "Gigafire" because of the August Complex Fire, burning over 1 million acres by itself. Four of California's top five largest wildfires in state history happened in 2020. 

If you live in a wildfire-prone zone, Cal Fire suggests creating a defensible space around your home. Defensible space is an area around a building in which vegetation and other debris are completely cleared. At least 100 feet is recommended.

WATCH: What you need to know to prepare, stay safe for wildfires

The Department of Homeland Security suggests assembling an emergency kit that has important documents, N95 respirator masks, supplies to grab with you if you’re forced to leave at a moment’s notice. The agency also suggests signing up for local warning system notifications and know your community’s evacuation plans best to prepare yourself and your family in cases of wildfires.

Some counties use Nixle alerts to update residents on severe weather, wildfires, and other news. To sign up, visit www.nixle.com or text your zip code to 888777 to start receiving alerts. 

Read more: Are you wildfire ready? Here's what to do to prepare for fire season.

PG&E customers can also subscribe to alerts via text, email, or phone call. If you're a PG&E customer, visit the Profile & Alerts section of your account to register.

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