Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Many Horseback Riding Accident Can Be Prevented

By Haylee Landford

Horseback riding safety tips can save lives. For many people, riding a horse in the woods or up a mountainous trail in Colorado, is an ideal way to spend an afternoon. Horseback riding can be done at any pace, from relaxing and enjoying the outdoors to working hard to burn calories. Whatever the goal, horseback riding safety tips can help make the day enjoyable, fun and safe for everyone.

Below are some helpful tips to make your horseback riding trek goes off without a hitch.

Ride a horse that matches your riding skills and if you will be on a road at all, be sure your horse is safe to ride in such areas.

An ASTM approved helmet that's securely fastened and worn at all times while on a horse is highly recommended by owners and trainers.

Shoes or boots with a one inch heel is a good choice for stability.

The saddle of a new or inexperienced rider should be furnished with break-away stirrups which is a safety feature which will help prevent falls and therefore keep them from being drug if the horse does not stop.

Ride with a buddy is best and can be more fun and at least bring a cell phone or 2-way radio in case of emergency.

Advise someone before you leave for your ride of your agenda; as far as where you'll be and when you'll be back. At the minimum let someone know if you are not back by a certain time where they should look for you on your Colorado land.

It is a splendid plan to go the speed of your slowest rider or the one who is the least masterful because the faster you are going the less reaction time there is to correct a loss of balance, near fall or conditions you didn't expect.

Extra caution needs to be taken during hunting season. The anxious hunter may react too quickly before actually getting a good visual on what is in his target.

When riding at night on your Colorado land, reflective clothing should be worn and you should carry flashlights and be sure to continue only on well marked trails.

An apparatus kit should accompany you that includes such things as a halter incase you need to tie up to something and a pocket knife in case you need to pick something our of the horses hoof. Also included might be sunscreen, water and snacks.

Wearing sunscreen is a good idea in the sunny climates of Colorado, along with carrying water and some snacks with you and wearing comfortable clothing. Also be sure to get down off your horse once in a while to give everyone a rest.

There are many more safety tips that can be thought up, these are just a few meant to help you appreciate your desire for horseback riding on your Colorado land, and help to keep you safe.

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