“Throwing a firework into an area that’s tinder dry is not a sound decision.” says Jonathan Scheirman, with Clackamas Fire District 1, Station 15.

Scheirman spent nine days on the front lines of the fire as an incident safety manager. There he organized crews and prepared escape routes.

Over the course of two months, and counting, 48,841 acres have burned, and 1,200 firefighters have been deployed. For those on the ground fighting the fire it was a trying and stressful experience, away from family and fighting for their lives, and the homes of others.

Current evidence points to the fire being the result of unsupervised minors using fireworks. This has lead some to call for the release of these minor’s names, and/or harsh punishments for them and/or their families, financial or otherwise. With some going as far as to wish death upon the perpetrator. However, the firefighters who were there are able to take a more measured response.

“That’s up to the court system to decide.” says Schierman with regards to what should come of those who started the fire.

It was recently announced that charges will be pressed, against one of the teens, and they will be charged as minors. However their names have yet to be revealed, and it is unknown how the state will handle their day in court with regards to anonymity.

This fire has affected many of people in the Cascade Locks area by destroying people’s homes, destroying wildlife, plants, and trees. All in all, the kids are facing the consequences that come with mistakes with the likes of starting a forest fire.