I could go either way on this one.

Along with Someone @ 44, I understand the cops were only doing what they were trained to do: the FD was on the way, and the cops didn’t want the scene (and the burning building itself) cluttered up with stupid untrained civilians who would then also require rescue. They probably believed they were giving those in the building their best chance at survival by clearing things for the FD.

On the other hand, if I was away at work when a fire broke out at my house, and my neighbors were attempting to save my family from the flames but were stopped by police… I don’t even want to think about how I would feel about the police and the Nanny State. The mind rebels.

The real issue will come up in 5-10 years when police and fire services are deteriorating, but the police are still holding the crowd back waiting for a FD that never shows. When that starts happening, the point W is trying to make will be evident.