Placer County Fire Nears Containment

By Bill Johnson Published Sep 19, 2002 08:15 am Updated Jan 31, 2009 05:33 pm

At least six structures have burned, including three homes, in a fast-moving brush fire that grew overnight to 500 to 600 acres in the Rocklin area east of Sacramento. Officials say the flames are about 80 percent contained. Fire officials say some 50 homes have been evacuated and a number of roads remain closed. Schools that were closed yesterday have been reopened. No injuries have been reported. The blaze started at about 2:50 pm at Interstate 80 east of Sierra College Boulevard. The California Department of Forestry says high winds fanned the flames and caused problems yesterday. Winds are expected to be mild today, with temperatures pushing 100 degrees. The Red Cross has opened an emergency shelter at the Rocklin Sunset Center. Some 65 engines, four air tankers, two helicopters and six hand crews are being used to fight the flames.