Norwich — A fire that started in the first-floor kitchen of a four-story brick apartment building on Cliff Street was quickly extinguished, Fire Chief Kenneth Scandariato said.

The fire at 32 Cliff St., reported at around 7:10 p.m. Wednesday, was put out within eight minutes, Scandariato said. All residents made it out safely, and firefighters vented all floors to clear the heavy smoke.

Seven people were taken to The William W. Backus Hospital — two for treatment of smoke inhalation and five for observation as a precaution, fire officials said.

The fire remains under investigation.