Privatized Firefighting

Insurance companies concerned about the cost of replacing expensive homes destroyed by wildfires in western states are increasing relying on more than just federal and state firefighting crews to protect the property. "Business is booming for private firefighting companies," the Associated Press reports.

Timber and oil companies have long used private firefighting services, but now insurers with a vested interest in protecting high-value real estate are getting in on the act. That has some officials concerned that the private firefighters might get in the way of government firefighters, and that the wealthy will end up getting better protection from wildfires.