SONOMA COUNTY (KRON) – Firefighters have the upper hand on the Kincade Fire that continues to burn in Sonoma County.

The fire is currently 78-percent contained and has burned 77,758 acres. 

The fire has destroyed 372 structures, including 175 homes. 

Four first responders have been reported injured. 

Cal Fire says access to the northern part of the fire remains a challenge due to the steep terrain and narrow roads, but full containment is expected by Thursday, Nov. 7.

As firefighters have been on the lines for well over a week, Sonoma County residents have a message to share.

“Thank you!”

A group of grateful residents stand outside for hours on the corner of Brookwood Avenue and Bennett Valley waving their posters high.

They cheer on the thousands of first responders battling the Kincade Fire as they drive to and from their command center.

“We got through this because of them and the amazing org they had with the orderly evacuations everything made a difference,” Gina Lopez said. “I am so thankful I could cry.”

“These guys fought these men and women fought and they fought hard and they need to know that’s appreciated,” Pinky Duffield said.

These are residents who have been through evacuations many times, often not knowing if they’d have a home to return to.

“Because of them, we are standing here,” Maria Velez said.

It’s a simple saying but a loud message.