Squirrel Creek Fire Containment Expected Sunday

Rain and cooler temperatures have slowed down the Squirrel Creek Fire, allowing firefighters access into the fire's perimeter of up to 100 feet. Authorities expect it to be fully contained by the end of Sunday, July 8. As of 9:30 PM Saturday, the fire was still at 10,921 acres, but was 95 percent contained.

Albany County Public Health reports that all evacuees have been released to return home. However Dry Creek Road and Fox Creek Road is still closed except to residents. Albany County Undersheriff Rob DeBree told public health that residents may be asked by a member of the Sheriff's Office to verify identity of their property to ensure resident owners are who are truly occupying the property.

All aircraft except one medium helicopter and the COBRA helicopter were released from the Squirrel Creek Fire after their shift on Saturday. Authorities report that the COBRA will be used on Sunday to fly and map the fire's perimeter and seek out any remaining hot spots.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, although authorities do know it was human caused. One cabin and three outbuildings have been destroyed.