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Don't roast marshmallows at Hawaii volcano: USGS

The volcano began erupting in early May
The volcano began erupting in early May

Someone asked the US Geological Survey if it is OK to roast marshmallows over volcanic lava - and the USGS took the time to answer.

The query came on Twitter and with a caveat - "assuming you had a long enough stick".

"Erm ... we're going to have to say no, that's not safe. (Please don't try!)," the USGS said.

Volcanic vents, the fissures in the ground from which lava flows onto the earth's surface, also release large amounts of gases.

The fumes, some of which smell like rotten eggs, would spoil the sweet flavour, the USGS cautioned.

The comment was among a flood of public service announcements about the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii, which has been in eruption since 3 May on the Big Island.

So far it has destroyed 71 homes and forced the evacuation of around 2,000 people.