NEW BRITAIN, CT (WFSB) -
An early morning fire forced 12 people from a rooming house in New Britain. It happened just before 4 a.m. on Hart Street.
Fire officials say they were able to get the fire out rather quickly.
All 12 people who live inside the home got out. One person was taken to the Hospital of Central Connecticut for smoke inhalation. The others were taken to the emergency room to stay warm.
Residents told Eyewitness News that they woke up to a smokey haze filling the building and the sound of smoke detectors going off.
"Having a working smoke detector is the best thing you can do to protect your family from being injured if a fire like this occurred in your house," said New Britain Acting Fire Chief Thomas Ronalter. "So we urge everyone, check your smoke detector tonight. If they're not working change the battery, get a new one."
October is National Fire Prevention Month.
The Red Cross is assisting in finding temporary lodging along with food and clothing for those who have been displaced.
"This is part of the puzzle as we interview each fire client, then we find out what resources they do have," said Pat Calcinari of Red Cross. "The Red Cross will do what the Red Cross does and try to help when help is needed the most."
City and health department officials are looking to determine if the residents of the second and third floors can return to their homes later this week.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the New Britain Fire Marshal's office.
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