Over 1,000 prison inmates risking their lives fighting LA wildfires - for just 91p an hour
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More than 1,000 inmates have been released from their cells and placed on the front lines battling Southern California's relentless wildfires. As six million residents were placed under critical threat, officials confirmed the prisoners and 127 prison staff have been deployed to fight the infernos as 'Devil Winds' returned to fan the flames. The inmates, part of a voluntary program, earn sentence reductions by working as firefighters.
In an Instagram update, officials said the incarcerated firefighters and staff were "proud to support the Los Angeles community and the state of California in this critical time." Los Angeles resident Karen Nurse, who has been evacuated from her home, told the Mirror she was indebted to those who had volunteered.
She said: "People deserve the right to make amends for their mistakes, and those who have stepped out from their cells and stepped up deserve all our support. The 47-year-old mother-of-two added: "They are now putting themselves at risk to protect others.".
Critics of the inmate firefighter program have raised concerns about whether the prisoners are adequately compensated for the hazardous work. The inmates are paid, though it’s a paltry amount—approximately $27 (£22) for an entire 24-hour shift. They’re also provided with sandwiches and fruit.
A "Particularly Dangerous Situation" red flag warning remains in effect across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. America's National Weather Service issued the warning amid blistering Santa Ana winds - also known as 'Devil Winds' - and dangerously dry conditions. Windblown dust and ash advisories are impacting close to 17 million people, with officials urging residents to wear face masks to protect against respiratory issues caused by ash and smoke.
