Melb man attacks firies on arson rampage

Melbourne firefighters say they were shaken after having to turn a fire hose on an axe-wielding man who was on an arson rampage.

The 25-year-old is accused of setting alight two cars, a ute and a vacant house in Meadow Heights on Sunday night before going after fire crews.

The firefighters turned their hose on the man but he allegedly came at them again and set fire to their truck.

"Our crews demonstrated professionalism and quick thinking in a confronting situation. They are shaken but unharmed," the CFA said in a statement.

Police say the man then threatened two people down the street with the axe and stole their wallets before he was subdued by the dog squad.

He suffered bite wounds and was taken to hospital where he remains under police guard.