(A) The Fire Chief and his authorized representative, in charge at the scene of a fire or other emergency involving the protection of life and/or property or any part thereof, shall have the power and authority to direct such operations as may be necessary to extinguish or control any fire, perform any rescue operation, investigate the existence of suspected or reported fires, gas leaks or other hazardous conditions or situations or of taking any other action necessary in the reasonable performance of their duty. In the exercise of such power, the Fire Chief may prohibit any person, vehicle, vessel or thing from approaching the scene and may remove or cause to be removed or kept away from the scene any vehicle, vessel or thing which may impede or interfere with the operations of the Fire Department.
(B) The Chief or other officer of the Fire Department in charge at the scene of the emergency shall have the authority to place ropes, guards, barricades or other obstruction across any street alley, place or private property in the vicinity of such operation so as to prevent accidents or interference with the lawful efforts of the Fire Department to manage and control the situation and to handle fire apparatus.
(C) Any person who obstructs the Fire Department in connection with extinguishing any fire, or other emergency, or disobeys any lawful command of the Fire Chief or officer of the Fire Department who may be in charge at such a scene, or any part hereof, or any police officer assisting the Fire Department shall be in violation hereof and subject to the penalties provided in I.C. 35-44-3-8.
Statutory reference:
Obstructing a firefighter, see I.C. § 35-44-8