Hundreds of California prison inmates fight wildfires - and stigma

In California, a significant number of incarcerated individuals are stepping up to assist in battling the devastating wildfires that have been raging across southern California. Nearly 1,000 men and women who are currently serving time in prison have joined the frontline efforts to combat these record-breaking fires. This initiative is part of a long-standing volunteer program managed by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). The number of incarcerated firefighters has steadily increased since the fires began spreading uncontrollably on Tuesday, resulting in widespread destruction. Reports indicate that over 10,000 structures have been lost, and approximately 37,000 acres of land have been scorched. Tragically, at least 11 lives have been claimed by these wildfires, according to officials. The incarcerated firefighters are selected from 35 conservation fire camps operated by the state, which are minimum-security facilities where inmates serve their sentences while receiving valuable training. Among these camps, two are designated for women. The more than 900 incarcerated firefighters currently deployed represent about half of the total 1,870 individuals involved in this firefighting program. In the field, they can be seen wearing bright orange jumpsuits, working side by side with members of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, commonly known as Cal Fire. The CDCR has stated that these firefighters are working tirelessly, 'around the clock cutting fire lines and removing fuel from behind structures to slow fire spread. ' This program, which has been in existence since 1946, has sparked debate among critics and supporters alike. Some view it as exploitative, while others argue that it provides a rehabilitative opportunity for those incarcerated. The state compensates these inmates with a daily wage ranging from $5. 80 to $10. 24, and they receive an additional dollar per day when they are assigned to active emergency situations. This pay is significantly lower than what regular firefighters earn in California, where salaries can exceed $100,000 annually. Royal Ramey, a former incarcerated firefighter and co-founder of the non-profit Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP), expressed his concerns about the low wages. He stated, 'You're getting pennies compared to the other folks that's alongside of you. You're just cheap labor. ' He also pointed out that if an incarcerated firefighter were to lose their life while fighting fires, they would not receive any benefits or recognition for their service. Ramey mentioned that he often felt the weight of his situation, recalling that he had already signed his own death certificate while working in the field. Despite the low pay, he acknowledged that it is still more than what most prisoners would earn doing other jobs within the state penitentiaries. The conservation camps offer a more pleasant living environment, with better food and conditions compared to California's notoriously overcrowded and dangerous prisons. Ramey noted, 'It's a better living situation, definitely. ' Participants in the program can also earn time credits that help reduce their prison sentences. However, those convicted of serious or violent felonies are not eligible to take part in this initiative. After their release, many of these incarcerated firefighters seek employment as regular firefighters, but they often face challenges due to the stigma associated with their past. Ramey explained, 'There's a stigma to it. When people think of firefighters, they think of some clean-cut guy, a hero, not someone who's been locked up. ' To address this issue, he established his nonprofit organization to assist formerly incarcerated firefighters in overcoming barriers and to help fill the ongoing firefighter shortage in California. Currently, five wildfires are burning in the Los Angeles area, causing billions of dollars in damage and predicted to be among the most expensive in history. The state has mobilized over 7,500 emergency personnel and first responders, including the National Guard and firefighters from as far away as Canada, to combat the flames. Despite these efforts, the fires remain difficult to control and continue to spread, with 35,000 acres already burned from the two largest fires, known as Palisades and Eaton.