With fall setting in the Okotoks Fire Department has some reminders for residents.

Temperatures are changing and Okotokians are beginning to use home heating systems, which can be a fire hazard and create carbon monoxide issues.

Ken Thevenot, Okotoks Fire Chief says there are some important checks to do to keep heating devices in safe condition.

"Get them checked by a certified heating and ventilation person, and just making sure that their air filters and furnace filters are clean and the heating unit is in good working order. I know some people use space heaters this time of year when they get a bit of a chill on, make sure the space heaters have at least three feet clearance around them when you're using them. Make sure you don't tip space heaters over, and unplug them when they're not in use as well."

Thevenot adds gas and wood burning fire places, as well as pellet stoves should also be checked by a certified professional.

Halloween is also right around the corner, Thevenot says residents should ensure their decorations are fire safe.

"Just around holiday decorations, I want to make a quick comment on using candles around Halloween time, people have them in Jack O' Lanterns. They do look nice but they can cause problems, the flashlight would work a lot safer than using the candles around the decorations. Be careful with extension cords, use the proper cords for inside or outside for any of the decorations that you have during this time."

Okotoks Fire Services also recommends ensuring gutters are cleaned out so water can flow, which will prevent ice build up in different areas around the exterior of your home.

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