Children were seen hanging from a window in a desperate bid to escape smoke after a blaze erupted at a block of flats.
Emergency crews were scrambled to the fire on Bellfield Court, in Musselburgh, after being alerted by residents at around 8.30pm on Wednesday, April 21.
Homeowners were evacuated onto the street as firefighters tackled the inferno but at least one family were left trapped in their flat due to thick smoke.
Children could be seen hanging out a bedroom window as they desperately tried to stay away from the smoke.
The family was eventually led down the badly damaged stairwell by a hero fire crew.
It is believed the fire started in the flat stair and images show the exterior of the building has been left scorched and with smoke damage.
Three fire engines were called to the scene last night, along with two ambulances and police.
One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "It was around 8.30 when I started to smell smoke coming from outside. Then a couple of smoke alarms went off and I knew something was up.
"I opened the door to my flat and the whole stair was filled with thick black smoke.
"We managed to get out into the street and banged on a few neighbours' doors to alert them as we went before calling the fire brigade.
"Unfortunately a couple of families on the upper floors couldn't get down due to the thick smoke in the stair and were effectively trapped.
"The kids were hanging out the window of one flat and panicking a bit and at one point I thought they would have to be rescue through the open window.
"But the brave firefighters managed to get up the stair and break their front door down to get them all out safely.
"They were so professional and did a really great job - we were all so impressed.
"I know the family involved were so grateful to those guys because really they are putting their lives on the line for us."
Police have since confirmed a 33-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident.
Last night, a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said no one had been injured during the incident.
They said: "We received a call at 20:43 on Wednesday, April 20 to a house fire in Bellfield Court.
"Three appliances were dispatched to the scene.
"We remain in attendance at this time."
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