HELMETS

• Helmets
  Always wear your helmet.
  Note: Every time, every ride.
• Helmet replacement 
  If you have a fall and damage your helmet, replace it before riding again. Most companies have a replacement policy where they pay a portion of the price for a replacement helmet.
  Note: Even without noticeable evidence, helmets can be compromised on the inside. It’s better to replace a helmet after a fall then have it be ineffective for the next one.
• Helmets on the ground
  The mare I was riding was barn sour and when I tried to move her past the barn her mother was in, she wouldn’t listen and rode through me. Luckily, I was wearing my helmet. Always wear a helmet as you never know when you will be in an accident. 
  Note: Being barn sour is a condition that needs to be taken care of immediately. Work with your horse away from other horses and stable them separately as well if possible. A distracted horse (because of missing buddies, strange surroundings, etc.) can be a dangerous one.
• Wear a helmet
  My horse stepped on a nest of ground bees and took off in a full gallop on a paved road. I put too much pressure on the breakaway stirrups, which did their jobs and broke off. I lost my balance and hit the pavement with my head. I was unconscious in the middle of the road on a very blind bend and almost run over by a car. Luckily I was wearing a helmet. Always wear a helmet.
  Note: Always wear a helmet. Avoid riding on pavement or other unsafe surfaces as much as possible.
• Jumping and brims
  When jumping, wear a helmet or hard hat without a brim. Once, I fell over my horse’s head on a jump and the brim broke my nose. 
  Note: This can go either way, depending on the accident. In certain situations, brims may actually prevent a more serious head injury.
• Always wear helmet
  I ride dressage and it is not fashionable at the upper levels to wear a helmet. Don’t sacrifice your safety to look fashionable. Wear that helmet always—even on a short walk.
  Note: Wear a helmet. Every time.
• Helmets always
  A helmet is like a seat belt. Always wear one. It is a small price to pay for bad helmet hair.
  Note: Wear a helmet. Every time.
• Wearing a helmet when on the ground 
  I was on the ground with my horse and was knocked down by my friend’s horse. Her horse stepped on my head four times but I was wearing a helmet.
  Note: This is a great rule for all levels of horsemen.
• Being cool and helmet use
  I was tossed into a fence. I walked away with only a few bruises and strained shoulder as my helmet protected my head. Many riders think it is uncool to wear a helmet; it’s like a right of passage to turn 18 and ditch the helmet. Always wear a helmet.
  Note: Teach your children and/or students the principle of every ride/every time. Make rules if necessary.
• Helmet fit
  Find a helmet that fits your head and your style so you want to wear it.
  Note: Wear a helmet. Every time.
• Forgetting the hairstyle
  I was bucked off my horse twice. There really wasn’t any way to know this would happen. Forget the hairstyle and always wear a helmet.
  Note: Work with a reputable trainer to fix problems with an unruly horse. It's not always necessary to get rid of a horse with problems, but always make sure you approach the situation safely, including wearing a helmet.
• Wearing helmet properly
  Make sure you always use the safety strap on your helmet even if you are just cooling your horse. I was thrown from my horse and the helmet came off right before I hit concrete door corner.
  Note: A helmet is no good to you if it is not properly fitted and secured. If you're going to use one, use it properly.
• My children saved me
  My children saved my life by insisting I wear a helmet. I was thrown off my horse and received a head injury, but the helmet probably saved my life. I also broke 10 ribs which punctured my spleen and liver. Now I wear a chest protector.
  Note: Wear a helmet. Every time.