Why Over 800 Inmates Have Been Tapped to Help Fight the L.A. Fires
The inmates volunteering are paid a daily wage between $5.80 and $10.24, plus an additional $1 per hour when they respond to active fire or fire-related emergencies, the CDCR said
As the devastating Los Angeles wildfires continue to ravage the surrounding areas, help has come in the form of hundreds of California inmates.
Firefighters and emergency responders have been working tirelessly to contain the fires and help residents who have lost their homes — and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has enlisted over 800 inmates who volunteered to help, according to ABC News.
After signing up to be part of the state Conservation (Fire) Camps program, the inmates have been added to assist the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection crew members (Cal Fire), the outlet reported.
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LA firesAs of Friday, Jan. 10, a total of "939 fire camp firefighters are working to cut fire lines and remove fuel to slow fire spread, including 110 support staff," the CDCR confirmed to PEOPLE.
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, CDCR secretary Jeff Macomber spoke about the decision to enlist the help of state prisoners.
“Wildfires are a constant and formidable challenge for California, and CDCR conservation fire camps remain dedicated to supporting the state’s response. The work of our incarcerated firefighters and staff is an essential part of this effort, and their commitment to protecting lives and property during these emergencies cannot be overstated,” Macomber said.
Related: Suspect Arrested Near Kenneth Fire Won't Be Charged with Arson Due to Lack of Probable Cause: Police
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According to the CDCR, there are over 30 “fire camps” throughout California where inmates are trained in firefighting practices and techniques, also and support authorities responding to fires, floods and other disasters.
The inmates volunteering are paid a daily wage between $5.80 and $10.24, plus an additional $1 per hour when they respond to active fire or fire-related emergencies, the CDCR said, noting that a crew could work up to a 24-hour shift during emergencies and that they are also paid during rest periods.
Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times via Getty
LA firesRelated: Before-and-After Photos Show the Sudden Devastation from the L.A. Wildfires
Since Tuesday, Jan. 7, multiple wildfires have been burning — including the largest and most damaging one in the Pacific Palisades, with additional fires currently burning in Eaton, Woodley, Tyler and Kenneth.
On Friday, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed that at least 10 people have died due to the wildfires, while over 30, 000 residents have been displaced and thousands of city structures have been damaged.
Earlier this week, fire officials said that the L.A. wildfires are the most destructive firestorm in the city’s history.
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