An Arnold family was surprised twice by a fire three days before Christmas.

Amy Thomas, her husband, Gill, and two granddaughters were asleep in their home at 1628 Third Ave. shortly before midnight last Saturday when fire put them at risk.

“We heard banging on the door and people yelling,” recalls Amy Thomas, 54.

Arnold police Sgt. Mike Ondo and Patrolman Dave Clouse kept up the noise until Amy and Gill were able to wake up and open the door.