July 30, 2026, Tip Of The Week - A Hot Car Is No Place For Your Pet (Photo) - 07/30/26

A HOT CAR IS NO PLACE FOR YOUR PET

While many of us welcome the warmer weather, we must remember that some of our loved ones may find themselves in an uncomfortable predicament. It could even result in their death.

Pets regularly accompany many people on trips and errands, which often leaves them alone in a vehicle. Pets should not be left unattended in a parked car. On warm days, and even cloudy days, the temperature in a car can rise to dangerous levels in minutes, even with the windows left open.

A brief stop at a store or another errand can quickly turn into 15 minutes or more before we know it. Leaving pets in a car for this time could be a mistake that takes their life. Leaving the windows cracked won't cool the car enough to protect your beloved pet, even if they have water available.

Oregon was the 11th state to pass a Good Samaritan Law, which allows anyone – not just law enforcement – to enter a vehicle (by force or otherwise) to remove an unattended domestic animal without fear of civil or criminal liability. If you come upon a scenario where you believe an animal could perish, please contact our dispatch center at 541-265-0777 before deciding to enter the vehicle. Be ready to convey your location, the vehicle description, and a description of you. Our Animal Service Deputies will make every effort to respond quickly.

If you determine that more immediate life-saving action is necessary, please ensure you do all of the following:

• have a reasonable belief that the animal is in imminent danger
• notify law enforcement or emergency services either before or soon after entering the vehicle
• use only the minimum force necessary to enter the vehicle
• stay with the animal until law enforcement, emergency services, or the owner or operator of the vehicle arrives.

For more information and tips, check our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook: Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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Lincoln County Fire Defense Board Sends Fourth Deployment To Wildfires In Oregon. (Photo) - 07/24/26

Lincoln and Tillamook County Fire Agencies Deploy to the Akawa Butte Fire, in Deschutes and Jefferson Counties, in Central Oregon.

Lincoln County, — July 23, 2026 — This morning, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office by mobilizing Task Force 32 in support of the Akawa Butte Fire, located approximately 9 miles West of Crooked River Ranch, in Deschutes and Jefferson Counties, in Central Oregon.

Task Force #32 is comprised of units from Lincoln & Tillamook Counties with the following resources.

• North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) (Type 3 Engine) (3 Firefighters)
• Newport Fire (Lincoln Co.) (Type 3 Engine) (3 Firefighters)
• Netarts-Oceanside Fire (Tillamook Co.) (Type 3 Engine) (3 Firefighters)
• Depoe Bay Fire (Lincoln Co.) (Type 6 Engine) (2 Firefighters)
• Central Coast Fire (Lincoln Co.) (Water Tender) (2 Firefighters)
• North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) (Task Force Leader) (1 Firefighter)

The deployment is being led by Task Force Leader Cody Heidt of North Lincoln Fire Rescue.

Task Force 32 departed Lincoln County Thursday morning at 06:00 hrs. and is en route to the staging area in Prineville, Oregon. The team is expected to arrive at approximately 22:00 hrs. and will be assigned to operational duties immediately upon arrival.

The Akawa Butte Fire started July 16, 2026, and is one of many wildfires burning in Oregon. The fire is currently estimated to be over 26,000 acres with structures threatened. Firefighters will continue to encounter challenging conditions with increased temperatures and a potential for thunderstorms in the forecast this week. This deployment may last up to 14 days, depending on fire activity and operational needs.

Task Force 32 represents the fourth deployment of resources requested by the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) from Lincoln County fire agencies. These firefighters and apparatus have joined the statewide response to help protect lives, property, and natural resources as wildfire activity continues to increase across Oregon.

As Task Force 7 and Strike Team 7 return from their deployment to the East Evans Creek Road Fire in Jackson County, Task Force 32 is mobilizing to support ongoing wildfire operations. Upon arrival, Task Force 32 will join Task Force 22, which was originally assigned to the Brewer Fire before being reassigned to the Akawa Butte Fire.

As wildfire activity continues across Oregon, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board recognizes and thanks the firefighters and partner agencies who have answered the call to assist with these ongoing incidents. Their willingness to leave their own communities to protect others is a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and strong mutual aid partnerships that define Oregon's fire service.

While our personnel continue supporting suppression efforts throughout the state, we encourage everyone in Lincoln County to do their part in preventing additional wildfires. Outdoor debris burning remains prohibited countywide, and everyone should use extra caution with any activity that could create a spark or ignite dry vegetation. Small actions can have significant consequences during periods of extreme fire danger.

Every wildfire prevented helps protect lives, property, and the emergency responders working around the clock to contain existing fires. By remaining vigilant and following current fire restrictions, residents and visitors alike can make a meaningful difference in reducing the demand on already stretched firefighting resources.

The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board asks the community to keep those affected by these fires in their thoughts, including the families who have been displaced, as well as the firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, and incident management teams who continue working tirelessly under difficult conditions to protect Oregon's communities.

July 23, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Fire Safety (Photo) - 07/23/26

FIRE SAFETY

Fire season is in full swing and has reminded us to stay vigilant and cautious. Fire season is the time of year where wildfires are more likely to occur. There are precautions we can all take to reduce the risk of becoming the victim of a fire.

Many resources and status updates can be found at Wildfire.Oregon.gov or KeepOregonGreen.org. This week we want to share the following tips that can help keep you and your family safe.

Preventing Fires and Fire Damage

Protect your home

Embers are the leading cause of home loss during a wildfire. They can travel up to three miles ahead of the main flame front. Creating a 30-foot defensible space around your home can increase its chance of surviving a wildfire. To start:

• Remove combustible materials like dried pine needles and leaves from gutters, eaves, and around your chimney.
• Limb trees several feet off the ground to help prevent fire from reaching the tree crowns.
• Keep patios clear of dry, combustible materials.
• Remove flammable items like outdoor furniture cushions.
• Get a free defensible space assessment and learn more from your local fire agency or by visiting https://oregondefensiblespace.org/.

Campfires

First, call or check with your local forestry office or fire district to learn if there are any current campfire restrictions. Only light campfires when it’s safe and permitted.

When safely having a campfire:

• Select a flat, open location away from flammable materials such as logs, brush or decaying leaves and needles. 
• Scrape away grass, leaves and needles down to the mineral soil. 
• Cut wood in short lengths, pile it within the cleared area and then light the fire. 
• Stay with your fire.
• Extinguish it completely before leaving.​​

When using equipment

Before you start: 

• Check with your local fire agency for equipment use restrictions. 
• Make sure gas-powered equipment has spark arrestors. 

Always: 

• Use gas-powered equipment early in the day when the fire risk is lower. 
• Avoid starting equipment near dry grass and plants. 
• Avoid rocks and other solid objects that could cause a spark if a metal blade strikes them.  
• Keep a fire extinguisher or hose nearby in case of a fire. 
• Wear eye/ear protection and gloves. 
• Use caution when welding or grinding metal, be aware of your surroundings. 

When traveling

While you are packing and preparing to explore Oregon, it’s important to stay up to date on road closures with Tripcheck.com and have emergency supplies in case you get stranded. 

• Check out the resources at Car Safety | Ready.gov/Car
• Extinguish all smoking materials completely and never in dry grass.  Don’t toss it out your window.
• Carry a shovel, bucket and a fire extinguisher in your vehicle to put out fires.
• Avoid parking or driving on dry grass; your vehicle can start a wildfire. Park on gravel surfaces or developed roadside pull-outs to avoid a vehicle's hot exhaust system touching dry grass.
• Ensure all parts of your vehicle, from mufflers to chains, are secure and not dragging.
• Check tire pressure, wheel bearing lubrication, and the possible metal-on-metal contact of worn-out brakes.
• Maintain and clean exhaust systems and spark arrestors.
• ATVs are required to be inspected when in use on public lands. Operate ATVs only on established roads and trails on public lands.

If There is a Fire or Threat of Fire

Power Outages

In certain cases, utilities may implement public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). A PSPS is a safety measure designed to help protect people and communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might result in wildfires. Utilities may also need to deenergize lines to protect equipment from nearby fires, or to protect personnel fighting fires. What you can do:

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you receive alerts and messages.
• For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. This certification provides added benefits and helps the utility ensure they meet your needs in the event of an outage.

Natural gas tips

• If required to evacuate, no need to shut off natural gas.
• If natural gas appliances do not operate properly once electricity is restored, call your natural gas service provider.
• If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn on yourself. Call your natural gas service provider to restore service.
• If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.

In case of evacuation

Make, practice, and review your housefire and wildfire evacuation plans with your household. Help children learn the fire exits in each room of the house, where to go, and how to get help if you are not home. Remember to include pets and livestock.

Know the evacuation levels and what to do.
 

Level 1 (Green) – Be Ready for potential evacuation.

Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor your devices and telephones, local media sources, and Sheriff’s Office website to receive updated information. This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property, pets, and livestock. If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to a level 2 or 3 for this area.
 

Level 2 (Yellow) – Be Set to evacuate.

You must prepare to leave at a moment’s notice. This level indicates there is significant danger in your area, and residents should either voluntarily evacuate now to a shelter or to a family/friend’s home outside of the affected area. If choosing to remain, residents need to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Residents MAY have time to gather necessary items but doing so is at their own risk.

This may be the only notice you receive.
 

Level 3 (Red) – GO NOW! Evacuate now.

Leave immediately! Danger in your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this notice, you must understand that Public Safety Officials may not be available to assist you further. DO NOT delay leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home.

This may be the last notice you receive until the notice is cancelled or downgraded.

Visit https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/708/Emergency-Management to sign up for or update your existing Lincoln Alerts profile, find active wildfires, or see recent emergency alerts. 

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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07.22.26 - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Awarded High-Water Rescue Vehicle Through Oregon SPIRE Grant (Photo) - 07/22/26

LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AWARDED HIGH-WATER RESCUE VEHICLE THROUGH OREGON SPIRE GRANT

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has been awarded a new high‑water rescue vehicle funded through the Oregon State Preparedness Infrastructure Resource Equipment (SPIRE) grant program. This specialized vehicle enhances emergency responders’ ability to respond to flooding, severe weather, and other emergencies.

Designed for challenging environments, this vehicle can safely access areas impacted by high water or debris. It is equipped with a custom 17-foot aluminum rescue body, integrated stairs, and a deep-water fording kit capable of navigating up to 50 inches of water. “This vehicle significantly expands our ability to reach community members during floods, storms, and other emergencies.” said Lincoln County Sheriff Adam Shanks.

In addition to navigating challenging environments, this vehicle is equipped with a lift gate for moving medical equipment, evacuees, and supplies. The interior accommodates approximately 25 passengers, including versatile fold‑down seating and wheelchair accessibility, providing critical capacity during evacuation operations.

The Oregon SPIRE program supports local jurisdictions by providing essential response equipment to improve resilience and collaborative emergency response capabilities statewide. “Our communities have unique needs and challenges before, during, and after disasters. This funding helps increase capacity for first responders throughout Lincoln County, not only the Sheriff’s Office.” Sheriff Shanks continued. The addition of this high-water rescue vehicle will enhance coordination with local fire departments, emergency management agencies, and regional partners during disaster operations. Although this grant was originally applied for and awarded in 2022, it was delayed due to supply-chain disruptions following COVID-19.

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Columbia, Lincoln County, Linn County & Tillamook County Deploy To The Brewer Fire In Crook And Jefferson Counties, In Central Oregon. (Photo) - 07/20/26

Lincoln County, — July 20, 2026 — This morning, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office by mobilizing Task Force 22 in support of the Brewer Fire, located approximately 11.5 miles East of Madras in Crook and Jefferson Counties, in Central Oregon.

Task Force #22 is comprised of units from Columbia, Lincoln, Linn & Tillamook Counties with the following resources. Including one Engine Boss from Newport Fire Department.

North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - B12 (Type 6 Engine)
Yachats Fire (Lincoln Co.) - B82 (Type 6 Engine)

Nestucca Fire (Tillamook Co.) - B87 (Type 6 Engine)
Vernonia Fire (Columbia Co.) - HB451 (Type 3 Engine)
Albany Fire (Linn Co.) - WT15 (Water Tender)
North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - C-1 (Task Force Leader)

The deployment is being led by Task Force Leader Rob Dahlman of North Lincoln Fire Rescue.

Task Force 22 departed Lincoln County this morning at 11:00 a.m. and is en route to the staging area in Prineville, Oregon. The team is expected to arrive at approximately 5:00 p.m. and will be assigned to operational duties immediately upon arrival.

The Brewer Fire started July 15, 2026, and is one of many wildfires burning in Oregon. The fire is currently estimated to be 24,480 acres with structures threatened. Firefighters will continue to encounter challenging conditions with increased temperatures and a potential for thunderstorms in the forecast this week. This deployment may last up to 14 days, depending on fire activity and operational needs.

Task Force 22 represents the third deployment of resources requested by the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) from Lincoln County fire agencies. These firefighters and apparatus have joined the statewide response to help protect lives, property, and natural resources as wildfire activity continues to increase across Oregon.

As our firefighters continue to engage in the fire fight across Oregon, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board extends its sincere appreciation to the firefighters and agencies that stepped forward to support this statewide response. Their commitment to protecting communities beyond their own demonstrates the strength of Oregon's fire service and the longstanding tradition of agencies helping one another when the need is greatest.

As wildfire conditions continue to intensify across Oregon, we encourage everyone to do their part to prevent additional fires. Be mindful when operating equipment that can generate heat or sparks, especially during the warmest and driest parts of the day. Ensure campfires are completely extinguished where they are allowed, and never dispose of cigarettes or other smoking materials from vehicles or onto the ground.

The Fire Defense Board also reminds the public that outdoor debris burning remains prohibited throughout Lincoln County. These restrictions are essential to reducing the risk of preventable wildfires during this period of elevated fire danger.

Our firefighters are proud to answer the call wherever they are needed, but wildfire prevention begins at home. Every responsible action taken by residents and visitors helps protect our communities, our natural resources, and the firefighters working tirelessly across the state.

We ask you to keep the individuals and families impacted by these fires, along with the firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and all incident support staff working under challenging conditions, in your thoughts as suppression efforts continue.

For more information, please contact:
• Depoe Bay Fire District Fire Chief Tom Jackson
• Phone: (541) 992--6131
• Email: tjackson@depoebayfire.com

Lincoln, Linn And Tillamook County Fire Agencies Deploy Another Strike Team To East Evans Creek Road Fire (Photo) - 07/16/26

Lincoln County, — July 16, 2026 — This morning, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office by mobilizing Strike Team 7 in support of the East Evans Creek Road Fire, located approximately 14 miles northeast of Rogue River in Jackson County, Oregon.

Strike Team #7 is comprised of units from Lincoln, Linn & Tillamook Counties with the following resources. The deployment is being led by Strike Team Leader Mark Bernt of the City of Albany Fire Department. 

Strike Team 7 departed Lincoln County this morning at 08:00 a.m. and is en route to the staging area in Medford, Oregon. The team is expected to arrive at approximately 17:30 p.m. and will be assigned to operational duties immediately upon arrival.

The East Evans Creek Road Fire experienced rapid growth following its start on Friday, July 10, 2026. This fire has seen significant growth in the last 6 days, requiring additional resources. The fire is currently estimated to have burned 11,551 acres. Firefighters will continue to encounter challenging conditions as suppression efforts continue. This deployment may last up to 14 days, depending on fire activity and operational needs.

Strike Team 7 represents the second deployment of resources requested by the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) from Lincoln County fire agencies, this week, to assist with suppression efforts on the East Evans Creek Road Fire. These firefighters and apparatus have joined the statewide response to help protect lives, property, and natural resources as wildfire activity continues to increase across Oregon.

On behalf of the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, I would like to thank the firefighters and agencies who answered the call to assist our fellow Oregonians during this significant wildfire incident. Their willingness to serve reflects the professionalism, dedication, and strong mutual aid partnerships that exist throughout our state.

With wildfire activity increasing across the state, we ask everyone to be vigilant and exercise due diligence with any activity that could spark a fire. Avoid using equipment that may create sparks during the hottest parts of the day, properly extinguish campfires where permitted, and never discard smoking materials on the ground or from a vehicle.

We also want to remind all residents that a debris burning ban remains in effect. These restrictions are in place to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire during periods of elevated fire danger.

We appreciate the continued support of our community as our personnel assist in protecting Oregonians statewide. By working together and following current fire restrictions, we can help reduce the risk of additional wildfires and keep our communities safe.

Please keep the residents affected by this fire, along with all emergency responders working to protect lives and property, in your thoughts during this critical time.

Submitted by Lincoln County Fire Defense Board Chair, Chief Tom Jackson

July 16, 2026, Tip Of The Week - Summer Crime Prevention Tips (Photo) - 07/16/26

SUMMER CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

Summer brings warmer weather, longer days, outdoor activities and, unfortunately, an increase in theft and burglaries. There are some ways you can help prevent these crimes in your communities.

• Keep vehicles locked with the windows up at all times, even when parked at home. Remove all valuables including purses, cell phones, laptop computers, gym bags, briefcases etc.

• Avoid Home Improvement scams. Beware of anyone offering to perform an unscheduled home repair or asking to gain entry into your home. Ask for identification, contact the company they say they work for to verify employment and ask for authorization for them to be at your property. Never agree to pay for home improvement services until the work has been completed. Don’t sign home improvement contracts without reading the entire contract carefully and discussing anything that isn’t clear with the company and trusted family members or friends.

• Keep doors closed and locked. This includes garages, sheds and patio doors. Burglaries from open garages, sheds and residences are more prevalent in summer months and often occur while the homeowner is outside in the backyard.

• Unattended bicycles should always be locked to something sturdy. Remember when you stop to rest, eat, or use restroom facilities, to take a few moments to secure your bicycle.

• Vacation plans? Have a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your mail. Set inside lights on a timer. Set your home alarm. Use a home security camera so you can check in while you are away. Have a neighbor keep an eye on your house and make sure to leave a contact phone number for them to reach you in case of an emergency.

Taking some simple steps now and throughout the summer months can reduce the risk of crime in your neighborhood.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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Lincoln County Fire & Tillamook County Deploy To The East Evans Creek Road Fire, Jackson County, Oregon (Photo) - 07/15/26

Lincoln County & Tillamook County Fire Agencies Deploys to East Evans Creek Road Fire, in Jackson County

Lincoln County — July 11, 2026 — On July 11, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office by mobilizing Task Force 7 in support of the East Evans Creek Road Fire, located approximately 14 miles northeast of Rogue River in Jackson County, Oregon.

Task Force #7 is comprised of units from both Lincoln & Tillamook Counties with the following resources.

North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - E13 (Type 3 Engine)
North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - WT16 (Water Tender)
Newport Fire Dept (Lincoln Co.) - B31 (Type 6 Engine)
Seal Rock Fire (Lincoln Co.) - B62 (Type 6 Engine)
Central Coast Fire (Lincoln Co.) - B72 (Type 6 Engine)
Nestucca Rural Fire District (Tillamook Co.) - C84 (Task Force Leader)

The deployment is being led by Task Force Leader Eric Shoop of Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District.

Task Force 7 departed Lincoln County this morning at 6:30 a.m. and is en route to the staging area in Medford, Oregon. The team is expected to arrive at approximately 1:30 p.m. and will be assigned to operational duties immediately upon arrival.

The East Evans Creek Road Fire experienced rapid growth following its start yesterday and is currently estimated to have burned more than 1,500 acres. Firefighters are expected to encounter challenging conditions as suppression efforts continue. This deployment may last up to 14 days, depending on fire activity and operational needs.

On behalf of the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, I would like to thank the firefighters and agencies who answered the call to assist our fellow Oregonians during this significant wildfire incident. Their willingness to serve reflects the professionalism, dedication, and strong mutual aid partnerships that exist throughout our state.

Please keep the residents affected by this fire, along with all emergency responders working to protect lives and property, in your thoughts during this critical time.

For more information, please contact:
• Depoe Bay Fire District Fire Chief Tom Jackson
• Phone: (541) 992--6131
• Email: tjackson@depoebayfire.com

July 9, 2026, Tip Of The Week - How To Display Your House Numbers (Photo) - 07/09/26

HOW TO DISPLAY YOUR HOUSE NUMBER

Having visible house numbers to identify your address is important for guests, mail delivery, and of course, emergency personnel. It is much harder for emergency responders to find your home if your house number is not clearly displayed. Depending on the lighting and placement, your house numbers may not be visible from the street, especially at night. A poorly placed number can cost precious time in an emergency. Consider the following guidelines to help increase visibility as you display your house number.

On Your House

1. The number should be posted so that it is visible from both directions of street travel.
2. Trees, bushes, and other debris should not block visibility from the road.
3. Numbers should be placed above eye level, near the front door and well-lit at night.
4. Avoid placing numbers away from the front door such as above garage doors.

On Your Mailbox

1. Remember to mark both sides and the front of your mailbox. Do not use your mailbox as the only means of identification for your house. Numbers on the mailbox door may be great for your mail carrier, but they can be difficult to be seen by drivers during an emergency.
2. The numbers on the mailbox need to be highly visible. Remember to use high-contrast stickers or paint when adding your numbers to the mailbox. White numbers on a black mailbox are a great choice for visibility. Shiny silver numbers on a black mailbox are NOT very visible.
3. Another high-visibility option is to mount a sign above or below the mailbox. Again, use contrasting colors such as white on black.
4. If your mailbox is not in front of your house or near your driveway, emergency responders cannot use this to locate you. To help emergency responders locate your house faster, place your house number on your house or on a signpost in your yard.

Address Signs

1. The bigger, the better. The numbers should be at least four inches tall if displayed on a house or sign. Use boldface type that is wide.
2. Address signs should be placed about two feet from the driveway in the direction of the house.
3. Pick a color that will contrast with the background. If your house is a dark color, the address sign should be light so that the number stands out and can be viewed from the street. For example, a black number is perfect on a white house. A white number will also show clearly on a brick house.
4. Ensure the address sign is well-lit, especially at night. 
5. Use caution with brass or bronze numbers as they are difficult to see on many backgrounds.

Following these guidelines can save valuable time in the event of an emergency by allowing emergency responders to find your home faster. Help us help you!

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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