WICHITA, Kan. — Firefighters in Wichita were called to secure part of an abandoned building that was on the verge of collapse on Feb. 26, sparking comments about the responsibilities of fire departments.
The incident highlights one of many scenarios where firefighters are asked to handle situations that fall outside their primary role of emergency response and fire suppression.
In this case, crews were sent to tie back a brick veneer, preventing more of it from falling into the street. While their quick action likely prevented potential injuries or further property damage, the call has ignited discussions among followers on Facebook. Many firefighters argue that such tasks should not fall under their jurisdiction, questioning whether public safety agencies are being stretched too thin.
What did followers say?
“Job for structural engineer and their contractors not the fire department.”
“Seems a little out of their job responsibilities. And very unsafe.”
“How is this any fire department’s job? There is no way any volunteer fire department would do that.”
“We have to stop with this mentality that the FD will do it all. Doing a tie back in a structurally unsound building is a huge safety issue and is out of the scope for a fire department.”
“Sounds like that building needs a structural engineer to come in along with a construction crew, not the damn fire department.”
“Not the FD’s job!”
What do you say?
While fire departments are often seen as the catch-all solution for community crises, this situation raises important questions about the scope of their responsibilities. Should firefighters continue to step in when no one else can, or should cities and property owners be held more accountable for their infrastructure?
Take our poll on who should have had this call.
