Emergency Safety Tips

• Emergency Dismount

  If you are in a situation where the horse is totally out of control it is better to bail and jump off. I sustained more injuries by hanging on for too long. Try to roll when you fall off so that your entire body can absorb the impact.

  Note: Learn how to perform an emergency dismount from a trained instructor.
   

• One Rein Stop

  My horse spooked. Teach your horse to one-rein stop - it’s the best way to have control in an emergency situation.

  Note: Knowing how to deal with situations in a split second will help keep both you and your horse safe.
   

• Always Carrying Cell Phone

  My horse spooked and smashed my leg against a large tree. I was woozy and light headed in the saddle with pain. I was able to use my cell phone able to call the barn and tell them I was injured.

  Note: Its always good to carry a cell phone on your body in case of a situation like this.
   

• Seeing a Doctor

  If you fall or are kicked, it is wise to make sure there are no internal injuries. Often injuries to liver, spleen and other organs are not evident initially. Seek medical care immediately to be safe.

  Note: Just like with other trauma injuries, not all riding falls seem as bad as they actually are. It’s better to take a little time and get yourself (and possibly your horse) checked out by a medical professional.
   

• Lessons Recommended

  We took riding lessons from an experienced riding teacher and were taught an emergency dismount. The next week the horse stumbled and went down – I slid off, landing on my feet without a scratch. Getting professional riding lessons may be the best tip for new riders.

  Note: Learning is an ongoing process, especially with horses. Do yourself and your horse a favor by seeking out a professional whether you’re a new rider or not.
   

• Whistle

  On trail rides, take a coiled plastic wrist lanyard with a pealess whistle attached. The distress signal is three blasts of whistle in succession repeated every minute.

  Note: It's always a good practice to have emergency equipment with you. Including flashlights, whistles, etc.
   

• Handling Injured Horse

  My horse was injured above the front left coronet band and had just had shockwave treatment. I was showing someone his injury site without haltering him. When I touched the injury site, he wheeled and kicked me full force above the knee. He severed muscle and tendon and went down to the bone.

  Note: Horses that are normally extremely docile can become agitated or scared when injured. Make sure to take special precautions around injured horses.