**Warning Issued After Near-Tragedy at Kilauea Volcano**

**A recent incident at Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano underscores the importance of adhering to safety protocols, particularly around dangerous natural sites.**

A family outing took a serious turn on Christmas Day at Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano when a toddler narrowly escaped a fatal fall from the rim of the caldera. The incident occurred when the young boy wandered away from his family, propelling himself dangerously close to the 400-foot cliff edge at the volcano, known to be one of the world's most active volcanoes. Thankfully, his mother managed to grab him just moments before a potentially fatal fall.

Park ranger Jessica Ferracane, who witnessed the near-miss, expressed the urgency of sharing the details of the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The volcano, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, has been erupting since December 23, with lava flows visible to the public under controlled conditions. The toddler's reckless approach occurred in a closed area of the national park designated for visitor safety.

In an official statement, the park emphasized the importance of complying with safety guidelines, which include staying on designated trails and keeping children close. Violating these safety rules can result in grave outcomes, as highlighted by the boy's close call. With the current ongoing eruption, park rangers remain steadfast in their commitment to public safety, urging visitors to respect closure signs to mitigate risks to themselves and their families.

The Hawaii Volcano Observatory continues to monitor the Kilauea eruption closely, which is ongoing at a relatively low level but remains unpredictable. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the need for vigilance among visitors in natural parks, especially during heightened volcanic activity.