POTOSI, Wis. -- The Grant County Sheriff's Department is asking the public for help in identifying the person or persons responsible for an attempted arson case in Potosi Township on Friday morning.

Officials said an elderly man was inside of his home at about 10:30 a.m. Friday when he heard something unusual outside.

When he stepped outside to investigate, he saw smoke. Fortunately, he was able to put throw water on the fire before any damage was caused.

Authorities said that they found rolled-up paper that was placed underneath a set of wooden stairs at the home.

Anyone with information about the attempted arson is asked to contact Grant County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-789-6600.