Following are a few tips on how to stay safe when you're exploring Yellowstone National Park from the main roads or venturing into Yellowstone's expansive backcountry. While there's no need to be paranoid about safety, a little information will help you make the right choices as you explore Yellowstone National Park.

Blisters
To avoid blisters, wear comfortable shoes or boots, in addition to quality socks. Protect your feet with moleskin or similar products before rubbing becomes a problem.

Falling Trees
As a result of the fires of 1988, the centers of many trees have been burned out and are weak at the bases, which may result in trees falling with little to no warning. Heed the warnings of Park Rangers and be alert.

Giardiasis
Giardi microbes flourish in streams and lakes. If consumed by humans, they can cause violent illness. Symptoms of giardia include diarrhea, cramps, and bloating. If you experience these symptoms, consult a physician. Always boil, treat, or filter water before drinking, otherwise it is considered unsafe. To avoid giardia, carry adequate water for short hikes or boil drinking water from lakes and streams for at least three minutes before drinking or cooking with it.

Hypothermia
A potentially fatal cooling of your body to the point where it can no longer warm itself. If you are shivering and feeling disoriented, seek shelter and drink warm liquids. In certain situations, hypothermia may require medical assistance.

Lightning
If you see a storm developing, retreat to a lower location to reduce risk of being struck by lightning. Avoid water, ridges, isolated trees, and boulders.

Scalding Water
Yellowstone Park is full of thermal pools near or above boiling temperature. Venturing off marked trails or boardwalks is prohibited and extremely hazardous, as thin crusts around thermals may break suddenly. Burns can be serious, sometimes fatal. Be especially careful with young children.

Ticks
If hiking in grassy or brushy areas, do periodic "tick checks" to ensure that no ticks have latched onto your body. Lyme disease has not yet been found in Yellowstone's ticks, but there have been cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Rabbit Fever.