As wildfires continue to ravage California, private firefighting crews have become an increasingly common sight, hired by insurance companies to protect high-risk homes before disaster strikes. But as their presence grows, so do concerns about their role in firefighting efforts.

Fighting Fires for the Wealthy

Robert MacKenzie is an assistant fire chief, but not the kind found at a local fire department. Instead, he leads a team at Capstone Fire and Safety Management, a private company that contracts with insurance firms to protect homes from wildfires. When a fire approaches, his team rushes to insured properties, making last-minute adjustments to improve their chances of survival. They close windows, move flammable objects, and if needed, apply fire-resistant gel before evacuating.

“Ninety percent of what we do is prevention,” says MacKenzie, who previously worked for Southern California Edison’s fire department.

Capstone is part of a growing industry of private fire services that cater primarily to insurance companies and affluent homeowners. What was once a niche service for the ultra-wealthy has expanded into mainstream insurance policies. Even major providers like State Farm now offer private wildfire protection to customers in high-risk areas.

“It started with high-net-worth insurance carriers, but it’s now moved into the standard market,” says Janet Ruiz of the Insurance Information Institute.

A Two-Tiered Fire Response?

While private firefighting is not new and dates back to the 1700s before public fire services were established, its modern resurgence has sparked controversy. Critics argue that it creates a two-tiered system where wealthier homeowners receive superior protection.

Public outrage flared after billionaire developer Rick Caruso hired private crews to shield his Palisades Village shopping center from the flames. Images of pristine chain stores surrounded by water trucks stood in stark contrast to nearby burned-out homes and small businesses. Following the backlash, Caruso donated $5 million to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West also drew attention when they used private firefighters to protect their mansion during the Woolsey Fire, reinforcing concerns that elite access to fire protection leaves ordinary homeowners at greater risk.

Regulating Private Fire Crews

Recognizing potential risks, California passed a law in 2018 requiring private firefighters in evacuation zones to check in with public fire officials and follow their directives. They are not allowed to use emergency sirens, must label vehicles as “nonemergency,” and cannot operate on the same radio frequencies as public agencies.

However, private crews are still permitted to use public fire hydrants, a contentious issue given reports that hydrants in Pacific Palisades ran dry during recent fires.

Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, who authored the 2018 law, said the measure was necessary after incidents where private crews caused confusion and even required rescue themselves, putting public firefighters at risk. Officials are now reviewing whether additional regulations are needed.

Can Private Firefighters Work Safely?

While insurers see private fire protection as a cost-effective way to prevent massive payouts, public firefighters worry about safety and coordination.

“There’s no way for us to vet their training or protective equipment,” says Captain Dan Collins of Cal Fire. Unlike public firefighters, private crews may not be trained as paramedics or have the same qualifications, making them a liability in fast-moving wildfire situations.

Communication is another challenge. Since private crews operate on different radio systems, public firefighters may not be able to warn them of sudden dangers. “If we drive by an unknown fire engine and can’t contact them, that’s a problem,” says Collins.

The Future of Private Firefighting

Despite concerns, private firefighting is expanding. Companies like Wildfire Defense Systems claim a 99 percent success rate in saving homes if they arrive early enough to prepare properties. With climate change driving more frequent and intense fires, insurance companies are likely to continue investing in these services.

“The people putting money at risk are insurance companies, and they see this as highly effective,” says Stanford researcher Matthew Wara.

Still, the question remains. Will private firefighting become a critical tool in wildfire prevention, or will it further widen the gap between those who can afford protection and those who cannot? Until a more comprehensive wildfire response system is in place, the debate and the flames will continue to spread.