As the week before Christmas is upon us, the Okotoks Fire Department wants to ensure residents and their company have a safe and happy holiday.

Ken Thevenot, Okotoks Fire Chief, says it's important to keep an eye out in the kitchen while entertaining company.

"We just want to remind people, we know everyone is doing extra cooking and extra baking this time of year, having family and friends over, just remember, never leave any food or baking unattended," he said.

He says safety is a collaborative effort between community residents, neighbours and first responders.

" Sometimes we forget about it, so just a gentle reminder to one another to help each other out. That's why we're here. We can't do everything, we need to work as a team with the residents. The whole community needs to come together for, not just fire safety, but all safety in and around our homes," he said.

Thevenot adds there is still time to have the fire department out for a free home inspection, to ensure everything is in good working order before guests arrive.

He says space heater and fireplace safety, as well as never burning boxes, wrapping paper or other packaging are good ways to ensure a safe holiday

You can book a free inspection by calling 403-938-4066.

 Additional information can be found by clicking here:https://www.okotoks.ca/municipal-government/newsroom/news/fire-safety-tips-holidays

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