A coroner says the "preventable" death of a Rotorua woman highlights the extreme dangers of smoking in bed.
Rotorua coroner Dr Wallace Bain today released his findings from the inquest into the cause of death of 32-year-old Deena Borrell on April 4, 2011. She died from smoke inhalation and extensive burns during a fire at the Clayton Rd home she shared with her family.
Dr Bain said on the evening of the fire Miss Borrell was reported to have gone out and bought cigarettes from the local shop.
Everyone went to bed and a family member later woke to the smell of smoke and saw fire coming from Miss Borrell's bedroom.
Her mattress was on fire with Miss Borrell "standing behind the flames but unable to get out".