Police are appealing for witnesses after abandoned furniture was deliberately set alight in a common close in Murrayburn Green around 9 pm last night.
Eight homes had to be evacuated and four residents were treated for smoke-inhalation at the scene.
Officers are now keen to speak to anyone with information that can help them trace those responsible.
Inspector David Ferguson of Corstorphine Police Station said: “Thankfully no-one was seriously injured in this incident but it could have been much worse.
“I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area around 9 pm last night and who might have information that can assist us with our inquiries.
“I’d also like to remind residents not to leave items of furniture or rubbish in communal areas where they can be a target for fire-raising.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact officers on 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
