MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – The employees of the Mendocino National Forest want to remind visitors to have a safe July 4 holiday, especially while recreating in the forest.

With hot and dry conditions continuing, visitors are asked to be careful with fire in the National Forest, including campfires, gas stoves and lanterns, and to comply with current fire restrictions.

Fireworks, including sparklers, are prohibited on the Mendocino National Forest.

The forest is currently under fire restrictions, which means there are limitations on where campfires, gas stoves, lanterns and internal combustion engines – including chainsaws – can be used.

Recreation sites are posted with the information. More information on fire restrictions can also be found at www.fs.usda.gov/mendocino .

Nighttime temperatures are generally cooler in the mountains, and even during summer there is the possibility of storms.

Visitors should be prepared for changing conditions. Bring layered clothing and plenty of food and water on your outdoor adventure. Tell someone where you plan to go, which routes you plan to take and when you plan to be back.

“We want everyone to have a safe and memorable Fourth of July weekend, especially those joining us on the Forest,” said Forest Supervisor Sherry Tune. “Human-caused fires are preventable and historically have been among the most devastating for the Mendocino. We have been very fortunate not to have a large fire on the Forest since 2012 and ask visitors to help us maintain that this fire season by being careful during their visit.”

All Mendocino National Forest offices will be closed Friday, July 4, in observance of the holiday.

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