A man tragically died while attempting to ‘hot pot’ in a Yellowstone National Park hot spring, missing vital safety guidelines.
Yellowstone’s stunning natural beauty conceals significant dangers. The hot springs, often mistaken for mere warm-water pools, can reach perilous temperatures. Recently, tourists had to flee when a hot spring erupted unexpectedly.
Yellowstone hosts one of the world’s largest magma chambers, making the water intensely hot, uninhabitable even for marine life. Despite the temptation, the park strongly advises against entering these volcanic waters.
In June 2016, 23-year-old Colin Scott learned this lesson too late. Deciding to ‘hot pot’ in a hot spring, he tested the water with his finger, slipped, and fell in. Later that day, rescuers found only his flip flops and wallet, his body presumed dissolved by the boiling temperatures.
This tragedy could have been avoided if he had followed the park’s strict visitor rules. Yellowstone’s website emphasizes the importance of safety around geothermal features. Visitors are urged to stay on boardwalks or designated trails, as the thin crust around thermal areas can collapse, leading to falls into boiling water.
The guidance also warns never to touch thermal features or runoff, where temperatures can exceed 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93°C). Swimming or wading in these features is strictly prohibited, with more than 20 fatalities recorded from such actions.
Pets are also restricted. They must stay within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds, and are not allowed on boardwalks or in thermal areas. An incident in October 2021 highlighted this rule when a woman was severely burned trying to save her dog, which had jumped into a thermal feature.
Additionally, dropping belongings into hot springs poses significant risks. Reaching in to retrieve them can result in severe burns or loss of limbs.
By adhering to these safety rules, visitors can enjoy Yellowstone’s beauty without risking their lives. For a safer experience, perhaps consider visiting a beach instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Can you swim in Yellowstone’s hot springs?
No, swimming in the hot springs is extremely dangerous and can be fatal.
What happened to Colin Scott at Yellowstone?
Colin Scott died after slipping into a hot spring while trying to ‘hot pot’.
Why are Yellowstone’s hot springs so dangerous?
The temperatures can reach over 200 degrees, making them lethal to touch or enter.
Are pets allowed in Yellowstone’s thermal areas?
No, pets must stay within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds.
What should you do if you drop something in a hot spring?
Do not try to retrieve it; the extreme heat can cause severe injuries.