Police and fire officials launched an investigation after tragedy was narrowly averted when a fire ripped through a Dundee building.
Four people had to be rescued by firefighters after a stairwell in the Buttar’s Place flats shortly after 8pm yesterday.
Tayside Fire and Rescue teams from Kingsway East and MacAlpine Road rushed to the scene.
Ladders from three appliances were used to bring those trapped inside to safety.
Although no serious injuries were reported, residents are understood to have been treated for smoke inhalation.
Late last night, as the premises were secured, attention turned to how the fire started, with fears lingering that it may have been a deliberate act.
Vincent O’Donnell, chief fire officer at the scene, said, “We had fire coming from the stair area of the property and a number of rescues to carry out. It was a well-established blaze.
“Only two of the flats were occupied, although all of the properties appear to have been affected by smoke.”
Although too early to tell if the fire was started deliberately, Mr O’Donnell urged people to be prepared should they find themselves trapped by fire in their home.
“People must make sure that they have working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan as that is what has helped to save these people here tonight,” he said.