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.
