More than 4,300 prisoners will fight California fires

More than 4,300 low-risk prisoners will help combat the fires in California, in what will be one of the most threatening fires seasons in the history of the u.s. State. These prisoners are part of Conservation Camp Program, which allows some of these men and women can fight the fires instead of spending your time in the cell.

The prisoners are now living in about 40 places, designed specifically for this purpose. The program is not new, in fact: he dates from 1946 and is the largest and oldest of its kind in the United States, resulting from a partnership between the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR)

According to the Huffington Post explains, these inmates will represent one-third of the force of Californian firefighters. The American State is going through one of the most violent droughts in its history and, to complicate the situation, the number of fires of 2014 already tripled in relation to 2013.

"These teams are vital for us, especially this year, which will be the most difficult ever. Are a very important part of our Department and a great resource. We constantly use them ", explained Lynne Tolmachoff, firefighters ' spokesman Californians.

This program is only open to prisoners who do not have a history of violent crimes, murder or arson. Are mainly attached to fulfill the final part of his sentence-are feathers of up to two years and eight months are passed in the fields of conservation.

All inmates undergo a rigorous training of a month, with physical challenges and notions about the fire and how to fight the fires. Are paid in cash and in reduction of the sentence â€" two days for each day's work. And an opportunity to pay their debt to society.

"There is a great camaraderie when these teams work together. It is a privilege and is something which many of them learn lessons. Some of the prisoners, in fact, end up coming to work with us, "concluded Tolmachoff.

According to the CDCR, this initiative saves taxpayers every year, about €57,6 million ($ 177 million). It is recalled that this is a controversial topic in Portugal, although often mentioned by politicians and mayors. And the reader, agree with him?

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