Police patrols have been increased after a flats fire being treated as suspected arson left one person needing hospital treatment.

The fire broke out at a block of flats in Cezanne Road near the Dome Roundabout at 9.50pm last night (August 1).

Several properties at Adams Court were evacuated and one person suffered smoke inhalation.

Firefighters tackled the blaze and alongside police established that it is believed to have been set in the communal area of the block.

It is being treated as arson and officers remained at the scene overnight.

Watford Observer: Adams Court. Credit: Google Street ViewAdams Court. Credit: Google Street View

It is not the first fire to have occurred at Adams Court with a resident telling the Watford Observer that there were similar incidents on July 8 and 14. They added they feel “unsafe”.

Read more: Bin fire under flats put out by firefighters

Last night’s arson comes after hundreds of residents were evacuated from the 17-storey Abbey View tower block, which is on the nearby Meriden estate, after a fire broke out.

Read more: Abbey View tower fire resident feared 'another Grenfell'

Police say patrols will be increased in the Cezanne Road area in light of the latest incident.

Watford chief inspector Diane Whiteside said: “I know that this will undoubtedly cause alarm among Watford residents, particularly due to the recent arson at Abbey View. These are not being treated as linked.

“This kind of mindless behaviour could have fatal and devastating consequences and anyone found to be involved will be dealt with robustly. Putting lives at risk is completely unacceptable and I’m saddened that this has once again happened within our community.

“We are working alongside the fire service, partner agencies and the housing association to conduct an extensive investigation into the cause of this fire.”

Read more: Woman's 'ribs broken in racist attack' at Watford playing fields

Detective Constable Julie Vint, who is investigating, said: “We appreciate that this incident will understandably cause a great deal of concern among the local community. Our officers remain in the area to provide reassurance.

“I would like to appeal to anyone who may have any information about the fire to please get in contact as soon as possible. Any information, even something that may seem relatively minor or insignificant, could be key to progressing our investigation.”

Information can be reported online or via 101 quoting reference 41/61531/22.

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