Three rescued from Bilston flat fire after arson attack
[gallery] Three people, including an 18-month-old boy, were rescued from a block of flats after an arsonist struck in Bilston.
The blaze broke out in the communal area of the property in Bilboe Road at around 11.45pm last night.
Thick smoke was seen coming from the block of the flats as crews arrived.
Firefighters from Wednesbury and Tipton used breathing apparatus to enter the premises.
A 46-year-old man was carried out of one flat and a 21-year-old woman and her young son were led out of a second flat. They were all suffering from smoke inhalation and were treated by paramedics.
Crew commander Gary Melville said it was believed the fire was started deliberately. A plastic container containing shoes and Wellington boots has been seen alight.
He added: "We believe it was deliberate ignition. They were very lucky. They were all fine and were checked out by paramedics. It could have had a very different outcome as someone could have been seriously injured and the smoke was very thick and acrid."
Mr Melville said the crews spent around two hours at the scene and had to ventilate the property to clear the smoke.
