Police have urged people in Peterhead to help them catch a group of youngsters believed to have started a blaze at a derelict building.
And firefighters said the culprits had put lives at risk by settling alight the shed in Peterhead’s St Peter Street.
Two local crews spent about an hour dealing with the incident – meaning units at Fraserburgh and Maud would have had to respond to any other emergencies.
Firefighters involved in tackling Tuesday’s afternoon’s blaze had to have their protective clothing and equipment decontaminated because there was asbestos in the shed’s roof.
Constable Richard Cooper, who is leading the investigation into the incident, urged members of the public to come back forward with any information they have.
“It is very lucky that no more damage was caused or anyone was injured,” he said.
“Police Scotland will be working alongside our partners in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to identify the individuals responsible.
“I would ask that anyone with information about this incident contacts police.”
A spokesman for the fire service said: “We shall continue to work with our Police Scotland colleagues to ensure each incident is fully investigated, as much intelligence is gathered and that perpetrators are caught.”
Witnesses told firefighters that youngsters had been seen running away from the area with “blackened faces” shortly after the blaze started.
Police have urged anyone with information to contact them on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.