Wealthy Angelenos Hire Private Firefighters Amid Wildfires

As wildfires ravage Los Angeles, a stark financial divide has emerged, with wealthy homeowners hiring private firefighters to protect their multimillion-dollar properties at exorbitant rates, sometimes reaching $2,000 per hour. This trend has sparked outrage among the public, who criticize the prioritization of affluent individuals' homes over community safety. Companies like Covered 6 are experiencing a surge in demand, with owners noting their phones 'ringing off the hook' as desperate clients seek immediate assistance. Many wealthy clients justify their actions by claiming that they cannot rely on the overwhelmed public firefighting system, with some stating, 'I have the money, so why not?' The situation highlights the growing resentment towards the affluent during times of crisis, particularly as the public grapples with the broader implications of income inequality. The ongoing wildfires have already resulted in 24 fatalities and significant property destruction, further fueling discussions around resource allocation and social responsibility.