BREAKING: A fire broke out at a home on Dana Street in Wilkes-Barre early Monday morning, but swift action and a working smoke detector saved a family from potential tragedy. The incident occurred around 9 a.m., prompting urgent responses from local fire crews.
Wilkes-Barre Fire Chief Jay Delaney reported that the fire was challenging to combat, saying, “The slate roof was our worst enemy. It was a real labor-intensive fire.” Despite the difficulties, firefighters ensured the safety of the home’s occupants, including a dog and a rabbit that were rescued during the operation.
Homeowner Carolina Brito, who has lived in the house for 15 years, believed the fire originated in the back of the attic. “I had the turkey in the refrigerator and everything,” she lamented, recalling her plans to celebrate Thanksgiving at home before the fire disrupted their holiday. Fortunately, she and her son were the only residents present at the time, as her husband was in Florida.
Chief Delaney emphasized the critical role of the smoke detector, stating, “There was a working smoke alarm that alerted the family of the fire.” Thanks to this early warning, everyone was able to evacuate safely.
While the home suffered significant damage, Delaney confirmed it was not completely destroyed, thanks to the immediate efforts of the firefighters. The family’s home is insured, providing some relief amid the devastation.
As the community rallies around the Brito family during this challenging time, the incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of smoke detectors in ensuring safety. Local authorities are now assessing the full extent of the damage and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
