Last modified: Friday, September 5, 2008 1:30 AM EDT Fire in North likely accidental BY DAVID LINTON SUN CHRONICLE STAFF NORTH ATTLEBORO - Some of the 14 residents displaced late Wednesday night by a fire at a three-story apartment house on East Bulfinch may be able to return to their apartments today, the fire chief said. The 11 p.m. fire at 27 East Bulfinch St. appears to be accidental and caused by a basement dehumidifier, but the fire remains under investigation, Fire Chief Peter Lamb said. Fourteen people live in four units in the building, and all escaped without injury, Lamb said. "The people were alerted by smoke detectors. Had it been at 2 in the morning with people in a deep sleep, we could have been in trouble. I can't stress it enough that early detection by smoke detectors is a big deal," Lamb said. Firefighters confined the fire to the basement and had it under control in less than 30 minutes, Lamb said. There was smoke damage in the rest of the building. The damage, not including contents, was estimated at $50,000 to $60,000, Lamb said. Electrical wiring in the building must be repaired before residents can return, possibly as early as today, the fire chief said. However, officials were still checking fire damage to the floor supports of the first-floor apartment, Lamb said. A dozen people obtained temporary shelter with friends or relatives, Lamb said, while two were assisted by the American Red Cross.