MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – The storms over the past week have left behind plenty of snow and a winter wonderland at the higher elevations on the Mendocino National Forest.

But they’ve also left many roads impassable, brought colder-than-normal temperatures and made it difficult for many visitors to reach their favorite spots to cut a Christmas tree.

With more storms in the forecast, visitors are being asked to use caution and be prepared when going out to the Forest, whether it’s to cut a Christmas tree or enjoy the winter weather.

“Over the past week we have had several people get stuck and require assistance to get out of the forest,” said Forest Supervisor Tom Contreras. “We want visitors to enjoy the forest, but are asking that they do so safely, being aware of changing conditions and not taking unnecessary risks that can lead them to be stranded. With the snow and cold temperatures, an unplanned stay in the forest can be even more dangerous this time of year.”

Following are some tips when planning a trip to the Forest, especially during the winter:

Plan your trip:

Check the weather and road conditions, bring plenty of warm clothes, water, emergency food, tire chains, shovel, sandbags or other necessary traction devices.

Be aware when conditions call for 4-wheel drive and know the mechanical limits of your vehicle.

Make sure you have a full tank of gas when you leave and are prepared for changing conditions in the mountains!

Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back.

Take a map and be careful with GPS – they aren’t always up to date with the latest road condition information and can sometimes lead you into trouble.

Help the resources:

Keep vehicles on designated roads and be aware of changing weather and road conditions.

Wet dirt roads can quickly turn to mud, making it possible to get stuck and causing damage to road, soil and water resources.

If there are puddles in the road, mud flipping off the tires or you can see your ruts in the rearview mirror, consider pulling over and taking a hike, or turning around and heading back.

If you get stuck or stranded:

Do not panic! The person you told where you were going and when you were going to be back should report it to the authorities. Stay with your vehicle so you can be found more easily.

Signal distress by using emergency flashers and tying a flag on the antenna or mirror.

Run the engine periodically for warmth, making sure the tailpipe is clear of snow or ice and that a downwind window is open to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you’re cutting a Christmas tree:

Remember a saw to cut the tree with, and a tarp and rope to secure it to your vehicle and help you get it back home safely!

Make sure you are cutting a tree on the Mendocino National Forest and not from other federal, state or private lands and following the regulations on the permit.

Attach the permit on the tree where it will be easily visible with the tree packed or tied on your vehicle for transport home.

To help keep your tree fresh, cut at least one inch off the base when you get home and stand the tree in a container of water in a cool, shaded area, checking the water level daily.

Christmas tree permits are still available for purchase from the Mendocino National Forest and area vendors. Permits are $10 per tree and will be sold through Friday, Dec. 17.

The permits are good through December 24, 2010, and trees may be cut and removed any day of the week in any authorized area of the Mendocino National Forest.

For more information, please contact the Mendocino National Forest at 530-934-3316 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino.