North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP are investigating two separate house fires early Sunday morning that are now both considered suspicious.

The first blaze broke out around 2 a.m. on Sept. 21 at a home on Alexander Street, according to North Cowichan Fire Department Chief Ron French.

Firefighters believe the flames started outside the residence, and they were able to quickly knock them down with help from Maple Bay crews. Fortunately, all occupants escaped unharmed.

About an hour later, a second fire was reported at a home on Vista Avenue. Acting Duncan Fire Chief Geoff Spriggs says one man and his dog were inside when the fire started, but working smoke alarms alerted them, allowing both to get out safely.

Sixteen firefighters and four apparatuses, including support from North Cowichan, were

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