Using inmate labor to fight fires has been a practice in California since the 1940s. Where did it start and what do participants actually do and get paid?
The work done by prisoners to prevent and contain fires is just as valuable as that of other responders. But unlike their professional counterparts, they don't receive protections or benefits.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has deployed 931 incarcerated firefighters and 114 support staff through its Fire Camp Program.