In case of fire, the Fire Chief and his assistants shall rank in the order named and the officer of the highest rank at the fire shall take command of the Fire Department and direct the management thereof for the suppression of the fire, in the best manner possible; and when it may be necessary for the protection of other property and to prevent the spread of the conflagration, the officer in command may cause buildings to be removed, torn down or destroyed in the best manner possible. (1972 Code §7-1-5)