Over 1,000 inmates battle LA wildfires, earning pathways to firefighting jobs

There are 1,015 inmates currently fighting the Los Angeles wildfires, working up to 24 hours at a time clearing debris, curing fire lines, removing fuel from behind structures and even fighting on the front lines.

California has long relied on incarcerated individuals to support CAL FIRE in fighting the state’s numerous wildfires and last week’s unprecedented amount of fire fueled by Santa Ana winds is no exception. Historically, incarcerated firefighters have typically made up about 30% of the firefighters that fight California’s wildfires.

Inmates are paid anywhere from $5.80 to $10.24 per day from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and receive an additional $1 per hour from CAL FIRE when responding to an active emergency. Only prisoners who have non-violent behavior and have adhered to all rules while incarcerated are eligible for this program. Additionally, they must be incarcerated with a minimum-security status. Exceptions include sexual offenses, arson and any history of escape with force or violence.