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Horse Safety When You're On the Horse
Home » Horse Riding » Horse Safety » Horse Safety When You're On the HorseAnother time at which you need to be conscientious about safety is when you are on the horse. Riding can be extremely thrilling; however, it is not just a game. Follow these precautions carefully:
• Ride at your experience level. Never put yourself in a dangerous situation by attempting to do more than that which you have experience in and are comfortable with. (An obvious exception would be in educational circumstances when you are working with a teacher.)
• Wear heeled shoes. Good, sturdy shoes will keep your feet safe and in the stirrup.
• Wear clothes that fit. The pants (and yes – wear pants!) and shirt that you are wearing should be comfortably loose but not enough so that they could get caught on anything when you’re riding.
• Always use a safety helmet. Without a helmet, very small falls can turn into trips to the hospital or something worse.
• Check equipment. Make sure that your saddle, the bridle, and the girth are all in good condition and tightened properly. This can prevent tragic accidents.
• Dismount properly. In order to avoid broken bones, take both feet out of the stirrups before you start to get down.
• Fall safely. If an emergency arises and you are starting to fall or get caught in the stirrup, twist your body and flip onto your stomach.
• Supervise those under eighteen. Horses are excellent companions for kids; however, children should never be left alone with them.
• Ride with a friend. Always ride with a companion in case something unpredictable happens.
Related Horse Safety Articles
- Horse Safety Overview
- Horse Safety When You're Around the Barn
- Horse Safety When You're On the Horse
- Horse Safety When You're Working With the Horse
- Safety for the Horse Itself