A bushfire that came within metres of destroying homes in a country town south of Perth is being treated as suspicious, emergency authorities have confirmed.
A bushfire advice remains for people in the western and north western parts of Waroona, south of Pinjarra, after the fire on Sunday afternoon was brought under control.
About 30 volunteer firefighters are still on the scene, strengthening containment lines, managing flare-ups and mopping up.
And it is now thought the fire may have been deliberately lit between Coronation Road and Buller Road.
Suspicion of the blaze comes as new figures show one child is being referred to WA's Department of Fire and Emergency Services fire awareness program every four days.
WA police have set up Strike Force Vulcan to deal with juvenile arsonists, and have so far charged or intervened with 17 juveniles over fires since December.
Several youths were spoken to by police over a bushfire that threatened properties in Calista and Parmelia on Friday, and are also investigating whether young firebugs were responsible for a fire in Balga on Thursday.
Residents with any suspicions about fire starters are asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
