They could at least have hosed it down, while they were standing around watching. How much could that have cost? They were already there, no one would have had to enter it.
If the FD engages, they accept responsibilty for any damages.
Again, if you can depend on being a parasite to the FD - then so can EVERONE else. The fact that the FD was optional is a very basic exercise in Personal Responsibilty - one that both the home owner and you fail to grasp. Stupid action have consequences.
If he doesn’t have to pay for FD protection, then neither does anyone else. If no one pays the $75/yr payment - how do you suppose the FD is to be financed? Who pays for the Fire Engine, maintenance, equipment, training, the station, utilities, ect? The entire FD would go bankrupt - and then on one would have fire protection.
“They could at least have hosed it down, while they were standing around watching. How much could that have cost?”
Their entire income for next year.
Why pay then if you can get it free, after the fact?
If it caused them to lose their liability coverage for violating the terms of their agreement with the county it would have cost them plenty.