The Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic service is reminding the public that emergency personnel need lots of room to work at emergency scenes. 

The WFPS released a statement on Monday evening after two house fires earlier in the day brought out plenty of onlookers.

"Residents are reminded that any time they are bystanders at an emergency scene they should always stay well back to allow first responders room to do their work," the statement said.

Emergency scenes are often dangerous and require workers to be able to work quickly. The WFPS says that precious time is wasted when emergency personnel are having to spend time controlling crowds.

"Responders are often working in unsafe conditions and shouldn’t have to take the time to remind residents to stay back."