POLICE are treating a serious fire at a house in Headington early today, which is thought to have been caused by fireworks, as arson.

Fire and Rescue Service Fire Investigation Officer Guy Dunkley said: "Young people need to be aware of the consequences of playing with fireworks and the possible devastating effect it can have on the community."

"Events like these enforce the importance of having a home fire safety plan.

"Luckily this particular family had a working smoke alarm in their home which alerted them to the fire. They are extremely lucky to be alive."

Det Sgt Russell Simpson, of Thames Valley Police, said: "We were called by the fire service at 1.27am this morning to a property in Ramsay Road in Headington.

"There was a fire at the property that is thought to have been started deliberately. A fire could have serious consequences and, in this case, a family was asleep in the house at the time and they were very lucky to escape uninjured.

"I would like appeal to anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area or have any information about how the fire could have started to contact the police as soon as possible."

Anyone with any information about the incident to contact Det Sgt Simpson at Oxford police station via 0845 8 505 505, or if you do not want to talk to the police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

For firework safety information visit: www.365alive.co.uk or call the Community Safety Hotline: 08000 325 999.