Albertans are being asked to keep fire safety in mind over the holidays to ensure only chestnuts will be roasting over an open fire.
    During the holidays, homes are filled with Christmas trees, roaring fireplaces, lights, and often see an increase in cooking. All of those can drastically increase the chances of a fire occurring.
    “Albertans need to make fire safety a part of their holiday plans,” said Trent West, Alberta’s Fire Commissioner. “Today’s household items burn faster, hotter and are more toxic than ever before. Learning how to prevent, detect and escape a fire has never been more critical.”
    Trees, both natural and artificial, are potentially hazardous.
    “You want to keep your trees watered if you’re using a natural tree. If you have an artificial tree, don’t overload your circuits with lights,” said Drumheller Fire Chief, Bill Bachynski.
    Cooking was highlighted as the number one causes of fires over the holiday season. Residents are encouraged to be careful when cooking, never leave it unattended, and warned never to throw water on a grease fire.
    Bachynski also advises care when using a fireplace over the holidays. Unattended fires could burn out of control or even the gases released from a fire could cause harm.
    “Fireplaces should be checked all the time. Make sure you’re burning the right type of wood. Keep a window open to let some fresh air in when your using your fireplace. It prevents carbon monoxide poisoning,” said Bachynski.
    Considering the hazards, everyone should check to make sure all smoke alarms in their house are working.
    In case of a fire, make sure everyone knows how to get out safely. The province recommends developing and practicing a fire escape plan with all members of the household.
    Keeping these tips in mind could mean the difference between a happy holiday or none at all.

    Christmas and the coming of the new year can be a busy time for some and many residents will be taking some time during the holidays to visit family a friends.
    The Drumheller RCMP shared a few tips to help keep everyone safe during the holidays.
    For those leaving for the holidays, there are  few simple ways to help keep your house safe.
    “If you’re leaving, have someone look after your house and keep the appearance it’s being lived in,” said Staff Sergeant Art Hopkins. “If you’re not leaving, help your neighbours out and do the same for them. Clean their sidewalks and check on their house.”
    To give your house the appearance it’s being lived in, arrange to have a friend or neighbour shovel your walks, leave lights on, and arrange for someone to check up on your house periodically.
    “There are lots of things that criminals look at when they are driving through neighbourhoods,” said Staff Sergeant Hopkins. “You want someone to check on your house to make sure it’s secure and anything hasn’t gone wrong.”
    There are also precautions anyone travelling during the holidays should take as well.
    “If travelling, keep a bag of warm survival stuff in your car, because you never know when you’re car will break down,” said Staff Sergeant Hopkins. “In the event your vehicle breaks down, you should have enough to keep you safe until help arrives.”
    Travellers should pack a warm blanket and winter clothing, and give an estimated time of arrival at your destination.
    During the holidays, the RCMP will be out doing random check stops, especially on Christmas and New Years Eve. The penalties for driving impaired in Alberta come into effect at 0.5 blood alcohol content.
    “You’ll always see an increase in check stops. There is an increase in the number of members working and we’ll have check stops set up all over,” said Staff Sergeant Hopkins. “Don’t drink and drive, be safe, think of others using the road, don’t drive tired, and have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”