The Portage la Prairie Fire Department reminds everyone to ensure they're safe this holiday season. Christmas Eve is tomorrow, and fire chief Phil Carpenter says there are many things you can do to ensure your preventing any dangerous situations. Carpenter says candles should never be placed near a Christmas Tree, and the tree should be watered often as dry needles are incredibly family.

Carpenter says each year there are reports of fires started while cooking, many of which are a result of alcohol intoxication.

"We have found fires have been caused in relationship to alcohol. As an example, they're cooking and fall asleep under the influence of alcohol or just being tired, and then we see a stove fire, which turns into a kitchen fire."

Carpenter says you should ensure you're focused on the task at hand while cooking, and never use the stove while intoxicated or fatigued.

While sitting down with friends and family near a warm fire may be included in your holiday plans, Carpenter says there are many measures you can take to ensure that's a safe experience.

"You want to make sure it's kept clean and the chimney's clean. Keep your screen up for any sparks that may pop out of a fireplace area. Use dry seasoned wood, a fire place isn't a place where you want to throw a bunch of paper and your wrappings, because it can produce and get very hot very quickly. This is where accidents can happen."

Carpenter also says as always, you should ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order.