LUZERNE COUNTY -- More than a dozen people were forced out of their homes in Luzerne County after two double-block homes caught fire just minutes and miles apart early Wednesday.
The first one happened on Route 940 in Hazle Township around 2:30 a.m.
Neighbors were surprised when they saw the flashing lights and fire trucks.
"It's a pretty quiet neighborhood. Normally, if there's anything going on around here it's because the road is so busy, it's usually accidents," said Alica Wheeler of Hazle Township.
But this time, it was an accidental fire next door.
The five people in both sides of the home got out OK.
Officials say the fire started in the ceiling, likely because of old electrical wiring.
Neighbors said the family on the side where the fire started just moved in a few months ago and renovated the place.
"There was some electrical work done. There was some roofing done, I mean it wasn't just cosmetic stuff. So, we were actually surprised to find out there was anything wrong," said Wheeler.
Just about an hour later and six few miles away, fire crews here in Hazleton were called to another double home for a fire. It's been ruled accidental and fire officials said it all started because of an electric heater
"There was some clothes around it and it's variable thermostat heater that actually caused the issue," said Hazleton City Fire Chief Donald Leshko.
A dozen people were forced into the cold after the attic fire.
The two families got out in time, but the fire chief said the whole ordeal could have been prevented.
He asks that this fire reminds people to be aware of when and where they use electric heaters this winter.
"If you're going to use them make sure you keep the area clear. You are monitoring where you put them and place them. Also, watch what you're plugging them into," said Chief Leshko.
Fire officials said both double homes are livable, but in the meantime the Red Cross is helping the victims until insurance issues are figured out.
