A 49-year-old man has been arrested in relation to a suspected arson attack at a block of flats in Neston on Saturday night (February 7).
Seven people and two dogs had to be rescued after a fire broke out in the hallway of the building on High Street.
Firefighters were called to the scene shortly after 11pm and quickly extinguished the blaze.
One resident received treatment for smoke inhalation.
The 49-year-old man has been released on bail and is due to report to police on February 20.
Police are now appealing for witnesses following the incident.
Det Con Tim Cope, from Ellesmere Port and Neston CID, said: "I would like to appeal to anyone who was in the area between 10.30pm and 11.15pm on Saturday and believes they may have seen anything suspicious to contact Cheshire police on 101 quoting incident number 916 of February 7, 2015.
"Alternatively information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
