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Rider safety briefing

 

Safety Briefing and rider requirements for Trail Riding

 

Falls, kicks, bites, and muscle soreness are an inherent part of being with horses and all horse sport, including trail riding. 

We try to mitigate the risk of this happening to you through a variety of policies and procedures but please note it may still happen. 

 

Uncle Nev's has some guidelines that will help keep you safe.

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​What you wear helps keep you safe 

 

  • If you ride a horse, you should dress to protect your body as much as possible 

  • Clothing should cover your arms and legs in all weather (long trousers and a shirt with short or long sleeve) 

  • Warm and/or waterproof clothing in wet or cold weather 

  • Boots with a very small heel (not too chunky) or sturdy shoes

  • Helmets designed for equestrian use only, manufactured within 5 years, must be in good condition.

  • Never wear a go-pro or other device as this can cause injury in a fall and also be a distraction.

  • Phones must be secured in a zip pocket or bumbag and not used during your ride 

  • No facial or large piercings that could add to injury in case of a fall 

  • Nothing bulky, heavy or rattling in pockets.

  • Sunscreen to exposed areas of skin for sun and wind protection.

 

 

Controlling Your Horse

 

  • Always ask if you feel unsure.

  • Always have at least one hand on your reins and two hands for effective control.

  • Feel the connection of the horse lightly on the bit and let your hands extend forward.

  • Always keep your hands low in line with your belly button (High hands high chance of falling off).

  • Always keep your feet in the stirrups whilst riding with good even pressure and heals down.

  • Always lean slightly back into your saddle with feet slightly in front of you.

 

NEVER BE COMPLACENT AROUND HORSES REGARDLESS OF ABILITY.

 

Your behaviour around horses helps keep you and your horse safe.

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  • Keep alert and engaged to your environment and your horse.

  • Always hold reins when riding or dismounted.

  • Always slow, quiet, gentle and respectful movement around horses 

  • Always stand or move clear of kicking zones or place a hand on horse while close to them.

  • Never squat or sit in front of or near a horse or under the neck of a tied horse 

  • Never throw anything near horses or startle them with loud sound or flapping 

  • Never entangle ropes, reins or any saddlery with your hands or body 

  • Wait for assistance getting on and off your horse even if you can ride 

  • Always follow Trail guide instruction and RESPECT their guidance and decisions 

  • Respect the pace set by Trail guides as horse and rider welfare is being managed  

  • Keep at least half a horse space behind the horse in front of you and do not pass 

  • Never eat, smoke or chew gum whilst riding  

  • Never use Phone or camera whilst riding 

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We are here to offer you a wonderful experience while working to keep you safe.

Thank you for choosing Uncle Nev's Trail Rides for your trail riding adventure.

 

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