LA’s wealthy face criticism for hiring $2,000-an-hour private firefighters and using pink chemicals to protect luxury homes amid wildfires.
In Los Angeles, a new controversy is brewing as wealthy residents hire private firefighters at a staggering rate of $2,000 per hour.
This decision comes amid severe wildfires that have been devastating the area, leading to the destruction of homes and the loss of lives.
Many locals are upset about this situation, feeling it shows a lack of concern for those less fortunate.
The impact of the wildfires
Currently, several major fires are raging through California, causing significant damage.
Reports indicate that at least 16 people have lost their lives in these fires, while thousands more have been forced to evacuate their homes.
The flames have spread rapidly, making it a desperate situation for many families.
LA elite pay $2K hourly for private firefighters to protect luxury homes amid wildfires
As the fires threaten homes in wealthy neighborhoods like Pacific Palisades, some residents have turned to private firefighting services.
These elite individuals are willing to pay high prices to protect their multi-million dollar properties.
Their choice to hire private firefighters has sparked anger among many in the community.
Critics argue that this move highlights the divide between the rich and the poor, especially during a disaster.
One prominent figure in this controversy is Keith Wasserman, a co-founder of a real estate investment firm.
He took to social media to ask for private firefighters to protect his home, as flames were dangerously close to his neighborhood.
Wasserman’s post on Friday read: ‘Does anyone have access to private firefighters to protect our home in Pacific Palisades?
‘Need to act fast here. All neighbours houses burning. Will pay any amount. Thank you.’
His request has been met with backlash, as many see it as tone-deaf given the scale of the ongoing crisis.
Commenters on social media criticized him for prioritizing his property over the safety of firefighters and other residents.
Social media reactions
Nobody is forcing the private firefighters to do anything.
They offer a service and are very well paid for it, and in doing so they are (even if only slightly) relieving the pressure on the public fire service. Win win, one user claimed.
This has been happening with EVERY major fire for decades.
Even ordinary people are paying for rhis service because it’s cheaper than having to rebuild their homes and replace items, one user wrote.
Despicable! The third user commented.
if this is true , shame on the private firefighters.
If you have any experience of firefighting you should be trying to save the city ,not some rich persons 2nd/3rd home, another user wrote.
Concerns grow over the environmental impact of fires.
The use of bright pink flame retardant chemicals has also drawn attention.
While these chemicals are meant to stop the spread of fire, many are questioning whether they are the best choice.
Some say these resources should aid those most affected by the fires, not just protect expensive homes.
Water conservation measures are increasingly urgent.
In addition to the anger over private firefighting, there is concern about the impact of these fires on the environment.
Some believe using large amounts of water for private firefighting is wasteful amid strict conservation measures.
In contrast, authorities limit ordinary citizens on how much water they can use for their gardens and other needs.
The wildfires have caused significant destruction across Los Angeles, reducing entire neighborhoods to ashes.
The smoke and flames pose a threat not only to homes but also to the health of residents.
Many have reported difficulty breathing due to the poor air quality.
Local authorities have set up shelters for those who have lost their homes, but the situation remains dire.
Community members unite to provide support.
As the fires continue to rage, the community is coming together in various ways.
Volunteers are stepping up to help those in need, offering food, clothing, and shelter.
Many residents are doing their best to support one another during this challenging time.
However, the divide between the wealthy and the less fortunate remains a focal point of concern.
Preparedness efforts need significant improvement now.
The ongoing fires have raised questions about preparedness and response efforts.
With winds expected to increase, there are fears that the situation could worsen.
Firefighters from California and other states are working hard to contain the flames, but they stretch their resources thin.
Authorities urge the community to stay informed and follow evacuation orders as necessary.