Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For snakebites, immediately apply a reverse syringe (Sawyer Extractor). Keep the vic-
tim calm and still, wrap the bitten limb tightly and immobilize with a splint. Get the vic-
tim to a doctor as soon as possible.
TICKS
Ticks may be present from mid-March through July. Always check all over your body if
you have been walking through a potentially tick-infested area, as ticks can cause skin in-
fections and other more serious diseases. Ticks are most active from spring to autumn, es-
pecially where there are plenty of sheep or deer. They usually lurk in overhanging vegeta-
tion, so avoid pushing through tall bushes if possible.
To remove, press down around the tick's head with tweezers, grab the head and gently
pull upward; avoid pulling the rear of the body. Smearing chemicals is not recommended.
GEOTHERMALS
You'll see plenty of signs warning you to stay on existing boardwalks and maintain a safe distance from all geo-
thermal features. Thin crusts of earth can break, giving way to boiling water. Even warm springs can be danger-
ous; temperatures often fluctuate, sometimes dramatically, so what is safe one day may not be safe the next.
About 20 people have died in Yellowstone's hot springs since the 1880s; some have backed into hot springs while
taking photos, and more than one unknowing pet has jumped into a boiling pool.
The park service warns that spring waters can cause a rash and that thermophilic amoebas in the water can
transmit amoebic meningitis (though there are no recorded cases). If you do swim in any of the areas mentioned in
this guide, keep your head above the surface and don't take in any water.
Cold
HYPOTHERMIA
This occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it and the core temperat-
ure of the body falls.
It is frighteningly easy to progress from very cold to dangerously cold due to a combin-
ation of wind, wet clothing, fatigue and hunger, even if the air temperature is above freez-
ing. If the weather deteriorates, put on extra layers: a wind and/or waterproof jacket, plus
a wool or fleece hat and gloves are all essential. Have something energy-rich to eat and
ensure that everyone in your group is fit, feeling well and alert.
Symptoms of hypothermia are exhaustion, numb skin (particularly toes and fingers),
shivering, slurred speech, irrational or violent behavior, lethargy, stumbling, dizzy spells,
