As wildfires ravage Los Angeles, the rise of private firefighters has ignited significant controversy. Wealthy residents are reportedly hiring these firefighters at rates of up to $2,000 per hour to protect their homes, raising questions about inequality and access to resources during these emergencies. Critics argue that this practice highlights a troubling class divide, especially as some homeowners, including a CEO who offered any price for protection, still lost their properties to the flames. Despite pushback, advocates for private firefighting services contend that they are a necessary resource in a city overwhelmed by fire emergencies, aiming to protect not just million-dollar homes but also other vulnerable properties. Meanwhile, instances of residents frustrated with bureaucratic red tape further fuel the ongoing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of relying on private fire crews amidst escalating wildfire threats.