Toddler almost falls into active volcano on Hawaiian island: 'He walked right up to the crater'

hawaii - A toddler was rescued just in time from falling off the edge of an active volcano in Hawaii, sparking a warning for tourists to be cautious in the national park.

The Kilauea volcano in Hawaii is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, regularly erupting. The latest eruption started on December 23, attracting many tourists eager to witness the spectacle.

On Christmas Day, a toddler had a close call as he wandered away from his family in an area overlooking the caldera of the volcano. In a statement, the park officials said he ran 'straight towards the over 100-meter-high cliff of the Kilauea volcano' in a split second before his mother managed to grab him just one meter away from a fatal fall.

Park rangers are reminding visitors to stay on designated paths and away from restricted areas, as well as keep a close eye on their children. Those who ignore warnings, cross barriers, lose sight of their loved ones, and trespass into closed areas to get a closer look at the volcano are at great risk, officials warned.

Park ranger Jessica Ferracane, who witnessed the incident, expressed hope that 'future tragedies can be prevented' by sharing this story.