Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. In particular, check the antifreeze, tire pressure and tread, brakes, windshield wipers, heater, defroster, and exhaust system.

When traveling to snow country, motorists should carry tire chains that are the proper type and size, and are in good condition. Chains must be installed on the drive wheels, so make sure you know if your vehicle is front or rear wheel drive.

Other useful items to take are a flashlight, chain repair links, ice scraper or spray deicer, and a shovel. Taking along water, food, warm blankets, and extra clothing will make you more comfortable if you experience a lengthy delay.

And before you leave, put an extra door key in your pocket; a number of motorists have locked themselves out of their cars when putting on chains.

“A prepared motorist is a safer motorist to themselves, other travelers, and our highway workers,” said Caltrans District 1 Director Charlie Fielder.

In addition to being prepared, motorists should use caution as well as common sense.

Don’t be rushed; get an early start to allow more time to reach your destination safely. Let someone know your travel plans, the route you plan to take and when you expect to arrive, and update them if

things change.

Keep your fuel tank full in case it’s necessary to change routes or you get caught in a traffic delay.

And, above all, be more observant and slow down. A highway speed of 55 or 65 miles an hour may be

safe in dry weather, but is an invitation for trouble on snow or ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead.

Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.

“Many collisions are caused by driving too fast for current conditions, especially during winter storms,” said Adam Jäger, California Highway Patrol Garberville Area Lieutenant Commander.

Before traveling and during your trip, be sure to check current road conditions.

Call the California Highway Information Network at 1-800-427-7623, or go online to www.dot.ca.gov .

A past Umpqua Bank wish tree with the gifts it collected for local children. Courtesy photo.

LAKEPORT – Take the opportunity to make a child’s dream come true.

Umpqua Bank is once again promoting the Christmas Wish Tree for children under the care of Child Protective Services in Lake County.

These children range in ages from 2 months to 17 years. There are approximately 150 names on the trees located at the Lakeport and Kelseyville branches of Umpqua Bank. Hurry in to get your choice of tags!

The bank is reaching out to the community with the hope that you can join them to achieve our goal of giving a child their wish this Christmas season.

What a great way to teach your kids the gift of giving by getting them involved. It is so easy to do and very rewarding. Simply come into either of our stores, pick a child’s tag, and sign our register. Then return your gift by Dec. 10, wrapped and with the tag on it. If you don’t have the time to purchase a gift, you can make a monetary donation and the bank will be happy to do the shopping for you.

Umpqua Bank is located in Lakeport at 805 11th St. and in Kelseyville at 4280 Main St.

For more information call the Lakeport bank branch at 707-262-3342.

Join them for a holiday celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and, at the same time, help local community organizations.

Enjoy festive music provided by the Middletown Renaissance Pageant. There will be pictures with Santa Claus and the chance to purchase holiday gifts from local merchants, along with the opportunity to participate in the winery's wine sale.

Recommended donation items include unwrapped toys, nonperishable food items or a $10 monetary contribution. All donations will benefit local charities.

Langtry Estate & Vineyards is located at 21000 Butts Canyon Road, Middletown.

For more information, call the winery at 707-987-2385.