Tennessee Family’s Home Burns While Firefighters Watch [Video]

A couple in Tennessee had to watch helplessly as their home burnt to the ground along with all of their belongings. But, they had company...the local fire dept was right there with them...watching it burn.

Was it too dangerous of a situation for the fire dept. to get involved? Nope. The couple's home burned because they had failed to pay the annual $75 "Pay For Spray" fee.

Vicky Bell says she called 911 for help when the trailer caught fire. The fire trucks got there in a hurry, but once they arrived, did nothing to stop the fire. The couple had not paid their $75 annual fee for fire protection.

South Fulton Mayor David Crocker tells the the NBC affiliate WPSD-TV defending the fire department, saying that if firefighters responded to non-subscribers, no one would have an incentive to pay the fee. Residents in the city of South Fulton receive the service automatically, but it is not extended to those living in the greater county-wide area.

So, what do you think about this? Pretty polarizing situation really. I can see the city's situation needing to charge the fee to able to have the money to respond to the rural emergencies. However, to have the fire dept. show up and watch as your house burns just sounds crazy.