Santa Cruz Summit Fire Burns 3000 Acres -- So Far

There's been some good news (well, relatively speaking) in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where the fire whipped through 3000 acres and 12 homes since it began yesterday. The strong winds have died to a breeze -- which obviously gives firefighters a reprieve as they battle the flames. The fire is now 20 percent contained.

Governor Schwarzenegger declared a State of Emergency. No people have been injured -- and many animals, including hundreds of horses, were safely evacuated. We never quite know the wildlife toll in these blazes, and this fire swept the area during the height of nesting season.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection posts regular updates here on the fires in progress.

Evacuation centers are at the Fairgrounds in Watsonville, where Red Cross is providing meals, counseling and other information.

If you live in the area of the fire -- and are safe -- with an Internet connection -- you can register with the Red Cross -- to let searching family and friends know you're alright.

United Animal Nations -- an organization which operates like the Red Cross for pets and animals -- is offering financial assistance grants to pet owners who've been victimized by the fire -- and who may need help paying for veterinary care, temporary boarding, or transportation.

Donations can be sent to both Red Cross and UAN, to help with both human and non-human needs during this fire.

^{Justin Sullivan/Getty Images}