DOZENS of residents were evacuated during an alert over a potential gas explosion in a block of flats.
They were forced to leave their homes in Sutton Way, near The Boulevard, Ellesmere Port, after arsonists started a fire close to a gas pipe.
People living further away were ordered to stay inside and barricade themselves in.
Quick action by town firefighters prevented the pipe exploding. Noone was hurt in the drama, which started at 7.02am on Tuesday.
Leading Firefighter Mark Brothwood said two engines from White Watch attended and stayed on site for an hour.
He said: 'We were called to a flat on fire, with people reported trapped inside. One appliance went to the front of the flats, one to the rear.
'We were faced with smoke issuing from the stairwell. The fire was coming from the refuse storage area at the rear.
'While that was being dealt with, we went into the block of flats and, wearing breathing apparatus, completed a search of the building.
'A positive pressure ventilation fan was set to work clearing the smoke.
No-one needed rescuing and everyone was accounted for.'
Crews brought the fire under control within minutes, using a high-pressure hose reel.
Mr Brothwood added: 'The source of the fire was a refuse container, found next to the main gas pipe feeding at least two of the flats.
'Transco were asked to attend and the public advised to stay inside their properties, close all windows or to evacuate, depending on their location.
'The gas leak was fixed and the incident left with Transco.
'Once the scene was safe, those who were evacuated were allowed back into the building.
'There was the risk of a gas explosion here, endangering residents, our crews, police, paramedics, Transco and the county's housing association people.'
Firefighters are working with the borough council to prevent further rubbish fires in Sutton Way flats.
Mr Brothwood said: 'Cleanliness in the stairways is essential because they are required as an escape route for the two upper floors.
'People must ensure all rubbish is disposed of correctly and keep the surrounding area clear of rubbish as this becomes a target for malicious firestarters.'
