New London —  A loose electrical connection was the cause of a fire early Monday that temporarily displaced eight people from a home at 46 Squire St., according to Fire Marshal Vernon Skau.

The loose connection resulted in the generation of a considerable amount of heat, which ignited nearby combustibles, Skau said.

City firefighters were called to the scene about 3 a.m. Monday. The fire caused moderate damage to a second-floor bedroom and minor damage in the attic. All residents found temporary housing.

Skau said there are an average of 48,000 electrical fires each year it the United States. If outlets or switches feel warm, or if there are frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuits, flickering or dimming lights, call an electrician to inspect, he said.

To prevent electrical fires: avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpets, overloading outlets and place lamps on level surfaces. Use bulbs that match the lamp manufacturer’s recommendations.

There should be working smoke alarms in homes. They should be located at a minimum outside and in the vicinity of the bedrooms and at least one on every level of the home. Anyone who needs a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide alarm can contact the Fire Marshal’s office at (860) 447-5294.