As we hit those unbearable sub zero temperatures in the heart of the winter months. Usually having a fire going or using a wood stove is a nice way to stay warm or to just accept the cold coming in.

But with anything revolving around wood stoves or fire places can lead to hazards and the Okotoks Fire Department wants to help you eliminate them.

Fire Chief Ken Thevenot says one of the most important things to have when burning wood is keeping it dry.

"If you're burning consistently make sure its dry and seasoned wood that you are burning so it keeps your chimney clean," he says. "If you use wet wood or if you're burning other debris it will create a build-up of creosote in your chimney and that's where you'll see the chimney fires come from."

Thevenot says the best way to make sure your chimney is to use your line of sight to check for creosote build up.

"Visually and actually getting up or having a look down or up the chimney depending on your set-up is the best way to do it in my opinion," he says. "To me actually sweeping out your chimney is the key."

Another important element to dealing with wood stoves or fireplaces is the actual draft for your chimney and Thevenot says that also depends on your living situation.

"Say for example if you're within 10 feet of your peak of roof, your chimney has to be two feet above your peak to get a proper draft."

For more safety tips on wood stoves and fire places, Thevenot says the fire department is always available to answer any questions and come out to your home and check your chimneys anytime.

You can find their contact number here.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com