Backcountry advisory issued

COEUR d'ALENE — The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office on Friday issued a backcountry advisory after receiving "numerous" reports in recent days of vehicles that were stuck or slid off roads due to ice-covered roads.

"Travelers are cautioned that since the weather has turned cooler and large amounts of moisture is forecasted to come into the region, the snow will continue to pile up in the backcountry," a KCSO press release states.

Barricades at some trailheads have been installed, restricting travel in those areas to snowmobile and tracked UTV/ATV only.

A violation of the restriction is not only unsafe, but may result in fines or an arrest.

If you do attempt to venture into the backcountry, carry tire chains, shovels and communication devices. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle and carry basic survival items such as food, water, extra clothing, boots and blankets. Most importantly, tell someone where you are going and when you will return.