A man and two women have been arrested by detectives investigating a fire at a property in north Belfast.
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Police said they are treating the blaze at a flat above a post office on the Ballysillan Road as arson.
Three people were treated in hospital for smoke inhalation and the Fire Service has said two of them are lucky to be alive.
The property was gutted in the fire which broke out shortly before 8.30pm on Wednesday.
Fire Service Group Commander Alan Walmsley told UTV two occupants in the flat were semi-unconscious when crews arrived.
"They got a ladder through the window, smashed a large pane of double glazing. They then entered into the room where the occupants had just collapsed through the effects of smoke inhalation and were semi-unconscious. They rescued them."
Mr Walmsley said the situation could have ended in tragedy.
"Initial investigations would suggest there was no smoke alarm and because the fire became established it cut off their escape route."
North Belfast DUP MP Nigel Dodds commended the actions of the fire-fighters.
"It is a great relief that potential loss of life was averted", Mr Dodds said.
"This should serve as a stark reminder that any arson attack has the potential to result in serious injury or loss of life."
© UTV News