Remember to be safe if you plan to journey into a national forests in search of the perfect Christmas tree.

Local offices – including offices at Gifford Pinchot, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie and Olympic national forests – sell permits that allow individuals to cut a fresh tree on forest lands.

U.S. Forest Service officials offered these tips for cutting a tree:

 • Always tell a friend when you are taking a trip into the forest.

 • Remember to take your permit and a map with you.

 • Dress warmly, be aware of changing weather conditions and keep your car’s gas tank full. Have tire chains, if necessary, and don’t forget to bring a rope and tarp to transport your tree home.

 • Select a tree with a trunk that is 6 inches or less in diameter, and prepare to cut the tree no more than 6 inches above ground level.

 • Put on eye protection and heavy-duty work gloves.

 • Decide in which direction you want the tree to fall. Make sure the direction you choose is clear of all obstacles, including power lines and vehicles.

 • Make the back cut by standing to the side and away from the trunk. Step away as soon as the tree begins to fall.