Californians are upset after it was revealed that some of Los Angeles’ wealthiest residents are hiring private firefighters for up to $2,000 an hour to protect their homes from the ongoing wildfires. The fires have been destroying large parts of the city, killing at least 16 people and displacing hundreds of thousands.
The rich are turning to private firefighters, using a bright pink flame retardant, in an attempt to save their multi-million dollar homes. This move has angered many people.
Keith Wasserman, co-founder of a real estate investment firm, sparked outrage when he posted on X asking for private firefighters to protect his property in the Pacific Palisades. His post said: “Does anyone have access to private firefighters to protect our home in Pacific Palisades? Need to act fast here. All neighbors’ houses burning. Will pay any amount. Thank you.“
This message upset many on social media, who called Wasserman’s request “tone deaf”. One person criticized him for asking to divert resources to save his house, while others were trying to evacuate. Another person wrote: “You’re suggesting that private firefighters should risk their lives to save your insured home while thousands of others are struggling to get to safety?“
Wasserman responded by calling his critics “trolls.” He is now part of a group of wealthy LA residents who have been accused of wasting important resources. There are strict water conservation rules in place since 2022, limiting the amount of water people can use for their gardens.
Celebrities like Kim Kardashian, who lives in a $60 million house, were fined for using too much water. Other stars, including Sylvester Stallone and Kevin Hart, were also penalized.
As of Sunday morning, the Palisades wildfire has burned about 22,660 acres, and containment is only at 11%. The Eaton fire, northeast of LA, has reached 14,100 acres with 15% containment. The death toll is now at 16, as firefighters continue to battle the blazes before stronger winds make the situation worse.
