Winter has reared it's head in the Foothills and the Okotoks Fire Department wants to make sure residents are prepared.

With the wind chill often making the temperature feel much cooler, fire chief Ken Thevenot says it's important people dress for the conditions to avoid frost bite and stay warm.

He says motorists need to be prepared when they hit road.

"Make sure you do have an emergency kit in your vehicle, have extra food and water, and make sure your fuel gauge stays to the fuller side than the emptier side this time of year just incase you happen to sit out on the highway, and make sure you have a window scraper as well."

Thevenot says it's important people also allow themselves more travel time.

"Everybody says 'I was late because of the snow' well let's leave ourselves a bit more time, we all should be taking more time especially with the snow conditions."

Those with an attached garage should also make sure they're not running their vehicles inside to avoid carbon monoxide from travelling into their homes.

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