"Horse-Back Riding Safety Tips"

General safety tips

ü Ensure that the skill of the rider is matched to the horse’s temperament.

ü Become familiar with horses and their behavior and safe horse-handling practices.

ü Regularly inspect riding equipment and replace anything worn or damaged.

ü Ensure the horse’s tack fits well and is suited for the type of riding being done.

ü Do not drink alcohol or use drugs while riding or working around horses.

ü Avoid loose-fitting clothing that could get caught in riding equipment and cause dragging or trapped limbs.

ü Ensure that horse trainers /instructors are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid.

Head, neck and spine injuries

Head, neck and spine injuries are often the most severe horseback-riding related injuries, and head injuries are the most likely to result in death. The likelihood of death from a head injury is greatly increased if the rider is not wearing a helmet. In one study, riders not wearing a helmet were four times more likely to die when injured than those who wore helmets.

Helmets worn while riding and working around horses should be certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI). The helmet should fit snugly on the head, with firmly secured but comfortable chin straps. Any helmet that has undergone an impact should be discarded and replaced. Many helmet manufacturers also recommend that helmets be replaced every three to five years due to wear and tear and possible compacting of cushioning materials.

International studies of equestrian-related injuries emphasize that the use of appropriate helmets significantly reduces the number and severity of head injuries.

Modern helmets are affordable and much more comfortable than older versions thanks to better ventilation, lightweight materials and their availability in multiple sizes. Helmets are even available with a Western hat style!