Outcry after US cops snap selfie in front of burning house

Two New York police officers who took a selfie together in front of a blazing home are facing disciplinary measures and a community backlash.

A video shows the pair grinning while taking a photo in front of a house fire in the suburb of Uniondale on Thursday.

But police chiefs have not taken the same light hearted attitude after viewing the footage, reports The Washington Post.

"The contents of this video are very concerning to the department and are currently under investigation. If these officers are found to be in violation of any department rules and regulations, they will be appropriately disciplined," Acting Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter said in a statement.

Footage taken by a local resident also shows a firefighter snapping a quick selfie in front of the burning house. The police officers ask him to halt before he identifies himself and they let him take a photo.

Neighbours condemned the actions of the men.

"It's disgusting. I don't like that because it shows no concern about the people in the neighbourhood," a local told NBC.

But the owner of the fire-gutted house, himself a New York police sergeant, was reportedly unfazed by the men's actions.

"I'm not offended at all by this," he said.