Private firefighters: Who they are, how much do they cost? Private companies are leveraged if public resources are spread too thin

Key Differences Between Public and Private Fire Prevention Organizations

One of the primary distinctions between public and private fire prevention organizations, both of which provide emergency response services in their local communities, lies in their funding mechanisms.

#### Funding and Contracts

Private fire prevention organizations can be contracted by communities to offer firefighting services. Additionally, certain insurance companies may contract these organizations to provide firefighting services to customers who have high-value home insurance policies, according to Frontline Wildfire.

Individuals can also hire these private services to ensure they have access to firefighting support if a fire breaks out on their property. However, their role extends beyond just serving elite clients.

#### Role in Emergencies

These private companies are often utilized in situations "when public resources are spread too thin," as noted by Frontline Wildfire. For instance, the U.S. Forest Service frequently contracts private fire prevention organizations to combat wildfires, as public fire departments may not have sufficient manpower or resources to handle such natural disasters effectively.

#### National Wildfire Suppression Association (NWSA)

The NWSA represents over 250 private sector contract companies across 28 states. During peak fire season, these companies can mobilize a workforce of around 10,000 individuals. Private contract resources, including national and regional 20-person firefighting crews, engines, dozers, tenders, and other specialized equipment and support services, provide agencies with the flexibility to increase or decrease support cost-effectively.

#### Costs and Services

The contractor typically covers training, insurance costs, benefits, gear, and transportation. Bryan Wheelock, vice president of Oregon-based private firefighting company Grayback Forestry, told The New York Times that a small private firefighting crew with two people and a vehicle can cost approximately $3,000 a day. Larger crews, consisting of nearly two dozen firefighters and four trucks, can cost up to $10,000 a day.

Pete Bell, founder and co-CEO of Cotton Holdings, an infrastructure support services company, mentioned that their fees vary greatly depending on the project's scope and scale. Fees can range from a few hundred dollars for smaller projects to several million for extensive restoration or reconstruction efforts.

#### Liability Concerns

Leo Grillo, who runs the animal sanctuary Delta Rescue and owns his own firetrucks, highlighted the liability issues associated with private firefighters. "Private forces run a greater risk. They can only go where they're contracted to go, and other private property is off limits," he said.

Private fire prevention organizations play a crucial role in supplementing public resources, especially during times of high demand. Their services, while varied in cost and scope, are essential in ensuring comprehensive firefighting support in communities.