Three people have been displaced after a fire broke out at a multi-unit home in Jim Thorpe Thursday afternoon.

Borough fire Chief Vince Yaich said firefighters were dispatched at 2 p.m. for a working dwelling fire at 44-46 Coal St.

Yaich said that upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire coming out of the rear of 44 that extended into 46.

He said they immediately went to a second alarm due to the high winds and manpower, as it was a fairly remote area that doesn’t have hydrants.

Yaich said they called for tankers from Franklin Township, Penn Forest and Mahoning Valley fire departments, and on the second alarm they brought in Nesquehoning and Lehighton fire departments, an engine from Franklin, and the Lansford/Summit Hill Fire Departments RIT.

“It was a little difficult due to the high wind,” Yaich said. “As we were opening and ventilating, the high wind would help push the fire.”

Yaich said an occupant at 44 was home, and “from the reports I got, neighbors said they saw him outside, he claimed he saw smoke and flames, (didn’t have his phone) and he was looking for someone to call it in.”

He said that person was taken in the ambulance and transported to the hospital.

Yaich said he doesn’t believe the homeowner at 46 was home at time, and added the Lehighton Fire Department was able to get her pets out.

He said it took about 90 minutes to bring the fire under control, and added they remained on scene for another hour overhauling and cooling down the hot spots.

Yaich said 44 sustained heavy damage to the rear, first, second and third floors, while 46 suffered moderate damage to the first, second and third floors.

He said three residents were displaced, and that they were being assisted by the Red Cross.

Yaich said the cause of the fire is undetermined, and that a state fire marshal was on scene Thursday night trying to determine the cause.

He explained that like most of the departments in the area, especially during the day, manpower is an issue.

Yaich said the high winds were the main reason for the extra manpower and mutual aid.

A GoFundMe was started for the Gasker family Thursday night by Kayla Semmel and Kelly Solt.

As of this morning, the $5,000 goal that was set had already been eclipsed as $5,085 had been raised.

“On Dec. 1, Daphne Gasker, my employee and dear friend received a call that her house was on fire,” Semmel said. “The neighbor’s side caught fire, and it ultimately cost Daphne and her son all of their belongings.

“Luckily, her son was not home and the firefighters were able to save her beloved cat Meowy. Unfortunately, they did not have homeowners insurance and we are still unsure if their neighbor does.

“On top of this tragedy Daphne also had to say goodbye to her pap this week. Times are difficult for everyone, but if you find it in your heart to make any sort of contribution to this wonderful young woman and her son, I know it will be deeply appreciated.”

Semmel said that contributions may also be made privately and brought to the office in Jim Thorpe.