Blackpool woman arrested on suspicion of arson after Dickson Road flat fire

Officers arrested the woman after a fire broke out in a first-floor flat just before 8am this morning (February 14).

Police were forced to evacuate residents of the three-storey building and neighbouring properties.

The woman was arrested at the scene by police on suspicion of criminal damage and arson endangering life.

She remains in custody.

Fire crews from Blackpool and Bispham were called to the flat fire by police shortly after 8am.

Four firefighters entered the burning flat and tackled the fire wearing breathing apparatus to protect them from thick smoke.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) said a casualty had been treated at the scene by paramedics for smoke inhalation.

But the service was unable not confirm the identity of the casualty.

The fire was extinguished after 1 hour and 45 minutes, using a hose reel and two ventilation units.

A police spokesman said: "We were called just before 8am today (February 14) to reports of a fire on Dickson Road, Blackpool.

"Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.

"A 26-year-old woman from Blackpool has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage – arson endangering life and is currently in custody."