When someone yells out fire the proper response is to run away not, “Let me take a selfie.” It has become a growing trend to take selfies in front of disasters, like the recent explosion in New York. This not only hinders the emergency fire and rescue crews, it is highly disrespectful to those families involved. If a home has been destroyed by a storm, the proper response is to console the family and offer what help you can. Instead people are standing in front of a horrible accident taking pictures.
Why do people think it is fine to stand in front of a disaster area? It blocks off disaster crews from doing their job. First responders have enough to worry about without bystanders with selfie sticks standing where they need to put their hose or barricade. These heroes risk their lives to help others. If you are standing in their way, then you are putting their lives at risk.
While you are standing there shamelessly taking your personalized picture, you need to also think about the victims. These people need care and support from everyone around. They do not need someone taking a selfie in front of their burning house or their loved one being taken away in an ambulance. The selfie craze is not only confined to nonlethal accidents. People are even taking selfies in front of where other people died, like in front of disaster areas.
There are times when it is perfectly fine to take a selfie; it is even encouraged in many situations. However, the place to take selfies is not in front of where people have suffered a great loss. Everyone needs to show these victims the love and support they deserve.