Cultural fires on the rise
Auckland, New Zealand - February 6, 2008

He says it is important that people get into the habit of installing smoke alarms correctly so they know about the fire first before it becomes dangerous.

It is also common for people to take part in a prayer, but forget to put the candle out afterwards.

"Never leave a burning candle unattended," Mr Stephens says.

"We also attend cooking fires in garages that have LPG cylinders around."

New Zealand Oromo Association chairman Abduro Witago says the coffee making ceremony has caused a few home fires. The ceremony, which uses equipment such as a portable gas oven, heated coal and burning incense, makes it a high fire risk. The community can perform the ceremony up to four times a week. It is a traditional way of coming together and communicating with one another, Mr Witago says.

"As long as we aren’t told we are not allowed to make it, then it is okay," coffee maker Zahara Abbawaajii says. "It can lead to something devastating. So it is important that people understand and be aware," she says ...