Trouble during operations

Onlookers increasingly a problem for the fire department

The emergency services regularly have to contend with "gawkers". Even the threat of fines does not seem to deter them.

A crash, a fire - and people are quick to whip out their cell phones and take photos or videos. Recently in particular, fire departments have often had to contend with onlookers during operations. "People are filming and photographing the incident, often hindering firefighters in their work and violating the personal rights of those involved," explains Günter Prünner from the regional firefighters' association.

Danger of further accidents
In the meantime, curious contemporaries are turning up at almost every operation to watch what is happening. This can lead to further accidents being caused, for example when they slow down in the opposite lane during an accident on the highway to take pictures.

Appeal to common sense
Situations in which the "photo reporters" try to get closer to the scene in order to take better pictures are particularly problematic. "As a result, we have to deploy additional personnel to keep the onlookers away instead of concentrating on our actual task," says Prünner. The fire department therefore appeals to people to keep their distance during operations. "We understand people's interest, but safety is our top priority," explains Prünner.