In response to devastating fires in Pacific Palisades, real estate developer Keith Wasserman sought private firefighters, prompting criticism over the socioeconomic divide in fire protection. Wealthy individuals, including Rick Caruso, have turned to private services, which often focus on prevention and vegetation management. Despite high costs, these firms argue they enhance public safety. However, concerns persist about the coordination between private responders and public agencies, raising questions about resource allocation and effective firefighting strategies.
Seeking Private Firefighters in Pacific Palisades
Last week, real estate developer Keith Wasserman from Los Angeles took to the platform X, asking, “Does anyone know private firefighters to protect our house in the Pacific Palisades?” This came in the wake of devastating fires in the area. “I am willing to pay any price,” he added, igniting a wave of criticism. Some users questioned whether the affluent were draining already limited water resources, while others pointed out that each fire extinguished contributed to controlling the disaster. Wasserman subsequently deleted his account.
This incident highlighted a troubling disparity; it appeared that privileged individuals could secure protection while countless others faced devastating losses from the flames. The quest for private firefighting services has come to symbolize the stark class divide in America during times of crisis.
The Rise of Private Firefighting Services
Wasserman’s situation is not unique, as other affluent Angelenos have also sought private firefighting solutions. Rick Caruso, a billionaire and former mayoral candidate, had his estate and a shopping center in Pacific Palisades safeguarded by private firefighters. Caruso even invested in large water tanks to supply firefighting resources to the neighborhood.
In interviews, Caruso stated that while his private responders aimed to protect nearby homes from the flames, they were ultimately unable to do so. He recently donated $5 million to the Los Angeles Fire Department, illustrating the complex relationship between private and public firefighting efforts.
Among those utilizing private services was Adam Leber, Miley Cyrus’s agent, who ensured his Hollywood Hills property was protected. He clarified that his private firefighting team, comprised of former firefighters, brought their own water rather than relying on public hydrants.
Costly Services and Controversial Practices
The wildfires in Los Angeles have highlighted a growing trend in private firefighting. According to the National Wildfire Suppression Association, approximately 40% of firefighters in the U.S. work for private companies, often drawn by better pay than that offered by government positions. While a minority of these firms work directly for individuals, most are contracted by state fire departments or insurance companies looking to mitigate risks in fire-prone areas.
Private firefighting services typically focus on preventative measures rather than direct fire suppression. They manage vegetation near homes, apply flame-retardant materials, and remove flammable items from properties. However, their fees can be steep, with daily costs ranging from $3,000 for a small team to $10,000 for larger operations.
Despite their expense, these private firms claim they do not interfere with local firefighting efforts. David Torgerson, from Wildfire Defense Systems, emphasized that his crew operates only with the approval of the state fire department, ensuring coordination.
Public Concerns and Regulatory Challenges
California’s use of private firefighting teams has sparked debate since 2018, with regulations requiring these companies to obtain permission for radio frequency use during emergencies and prohibiting misleading identification as state responders. While sightings of private firefighting trucks have increased in areas like the Pacific Palisades, tensions remain high between private firms and public agencies.
Local fire officials express concerns about the chaos that could arise when private responders operate alongside public firefighters, citing issues of communication and accountability. Critics argue that the presence of private teams could divert valuable resources from the primary mission of extinguishing fires.
In defense of their operations, private firefighting companies argue that their efforts ultimately benefit public safety by preventing fire spread. As Torgerson noted, with many insurance companies retreating from fire-prone areas, private services play a crucial role in keeping insurance options available for homeowners.