(03/27/07) PATERSON ? About 20 people were displaced by an early-morning fire that destroyed three buildings in Paterson Tuesday.

Investigators say the flames broke out in the first floor of a three-floor apartment building on Main Street. It quickly spread to neighboring buildings, three structures in all. Nearby residents reported hearing an explosion, prompting them to scramble to safety.

No one was injured in the fire. The Red Cross is on the scene to help displaced residents. Despite the tremendous loss of property, many residents say they are just happy to be alive and safe.