5 September 2010 Last updated at 05:57 ET

Two women escape from house set on fire in Bolton

Two women managed to escape from a house after it was set on fire in Bolton early on Saturday morning.

Police and the fire service were called to the house on Deepdale Road in Breightmet just after 0200 BST.

A 21-year-old jumped from an upstairs window and a 43-year-old managed to put out the fire before she was treated for the effects of smoke inhalation.

An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

He has been bailed until 2 October pending further inquiries.

Smoke alarm

Police said the fire was started when a cushion was set alight and placed against the back door of the house.

The door was destroyed in the blaze and some smoke damage was caused to the house.

The 21-year-old woman had to be treated for a minor ankle injury after she jumped from the window.

Det Sgt Rob Parker, of Bolton CID, said: "While both women suffered relatively minor injuries the consequences could have been far, far worse.

"Because the woman was woken by her smoke alarm she was able to call for help and tackle the blaze.

"This incident once again demonstrates the importance of having a working smoke alarm."

He added: "I want to reassure residents we are following some lines of inquiry in an attempt to identify the person responsible, but if anyone has any information that can assist us I would urge them to get in touch."