Arsonist suspected over home-threatening WA bushfire

Police are investigating whether a bushfire that came dangerously close to homes in Aubin Grove, south of Perth, was deliberately lit.

Firefighters managed to save more than 80 properties, working through the night as strong winds fuelled the flames.

At one point, residents on Prosperity Loop were told it was too late for them to evacuate, with just a few metres between the fast-moving fire and homes.

READ MORE: Residents allowed to return home as bushfire downgraded

Casey Wake has a burned beach towel as a reminder of the threat after embers rained down on her backyard.

"Threw them in the pool and then just started hosing all that down as best I could, then hosed our lounges outside," she said.

The blaze broke out yesterday afternoon, with residents smelling smoke just minutes before it blanketed streets.

Overnight, the fire was downgraded from an emergency to an advice warning, with crews monitoring the area today.

Investigators are now trying to establish how the suspicious blaze was started.

Authorities have warned residents to remain vigilant.