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flue liners (woodburners)

Residents have been advised to check their chimneys before using heating tools such as flue liners for woodburners and fireplaces.

It has been advised that homeowners should avoid burning pine or sappy woods, while seasoned wood that has been dried for a minimum of 12 months will assist in reducing creosote accumulation within chimneys, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Mike Holmes, from heating expert HGTV, told the newspaper: "This is not negotiable - any fireplace or chimney that's not functioning perfectly can kill your family, either through fire or noxious fumes."

Before the turn of the new year, Patch.com gave advice to homeowners who are anxious about the stability of their chimneys and heating appliances.

The site advised that smoke can often fill up houses if fireplaces have poor draws, or if there are gaps in chimney liners. Also, wind can have an effect, as gusts blowing down chimneys can lead to smoke entering rooms.