| Basic Trail Safety By Laura Vonk |
All too often, trail riders take their safety on the trail for granted. Many mistakenly believe
trail riding is perfectly safe, so they don't take many precautions or learn what to do in an
emergency. Accidents do happen. It's not an issue of if; it's an issue of when and how bad.
Planning ahead and being prepared will help you avoid many accidents and help you better
deal with the ones that do happen. Going far beyond what’s in a good first aid kit, I’d like
to address some key points that will help your trail riding adventures be more comfortable
and safe.
Most equestrian related accidents can be traced back to some form of inattentiveness. Most
people assume that more accidents happen while in the saddle or while working with a
green horse. While many accidents do happen under those circumstances, the exact
opposite is actually more often true. Because we think of trail riding as a perfectly safe and
relaxing way to spend time with our horses, we let our guard down, especially when on the
ground or when riding our old, reliable bomb proof horse. We quit pro-actively riding and
often just become a passenger, paying very little attention to what’s going on around us or
what our horse is doing or seeing. That’s when accidents are more apt to happen.
Because of the seriousness of some of the injuries that can be sustained from horseback
riding, it’s always a good idea to know some basic first aid. The American Red Cross offers
first aid classes. They’re not free, but if you check your local newspaper, you can often find
classes in your area for a reasonable price. A First Responder Course and CPR would be
even better. At the very least, get a small first aid booklet, read through it before the need
arises, and keep it with your first aid kit. It’s a good idea to have two different first aid kits.
A larger one that you keep in your trailer, and a smaller one that you keep on you while you
are riding. The key words here being “on you”, not in saddlebags on your horse, especially
if you take any important medicines for conditions such as Asthma or Diabetes. Should you
get separated from your horse for any reason, your medicine will do you no good if it’s
back at the trailhead or out in the woods with your horse. I keep mine in a
small “survival” kit fanny pack that also includes such things as a map, compass, space
blanket, large handkerchief, water purifying pills, whistle, emergency poncho, small flash-
light, knife and an energy food bar. This is especially important if I’m riding a larger or more
remote trail. These things don’t take up much room, but can make a big difference in your
comfort and health if you have to hike very far or stay out over night. Carrying a cell phone
might be helpful, but most equestrian trails here are located in areas with little or no service.
Also, be sure you really know how to use a map and compass. Many people say they carry
one, but admit they don’t really know how to use it.
Missourians know how quickly the weather changes. Be prepared with the correct clothing
for the season you’re riding in and always take a rain poncho or slicker even if no rain is
forecasted. In early spring and late fall, dress in layers so you can remove or add items as
the temperatures change. Know the symptoms and treatment for heat exhaustion,
hypothermia, and frost bite for both humans and horses, if you enjoy riding in more extreme
temperatures. Consider wearing a helmet. They are being designed now for a better, cooler
fit and even come in designs that fit under cowboy hats for people who want the protection
but don’t like the look. Can you hike a mile or more in your cowboy boots? Not just walk,
but hike? Cowboy boots are standard wear for showing or western dancing, but aren’t
necessarily the best alternative for trail riding. Cowboy boots have a slick sole that can be a
hazard if hiking on slick rocks or in mud. Unless you have the money to have boots made
specifically for you, they can be uncomfortable if you find yourself hiking back because you
became separated from your horse or he was injured and needed to be led back to the
trailhead. You might consider the tennis shoes designed for horseback riding. Ariat is one
company that makes these shoes. Be sure to buy one with good ankle support
because you will definitely need that if hiking over rough terrain.
If you want to ride during hunting season, State Parks offer a safer alternative in most cases
since they normally do not allow hunting. They do however, occasionally close parks for
special hunts, call ahead before traveling very far and remember to be cautious if the trail
passes close to the park’s boundary because private land owners might be hunting on their
property. No matter where you ride during hunting season, always wear hunter orange and I
would highly suggest not riding anywhere on opening day or on the weekends.
In general, practicing good trail ethics will alleviate many chances for accidents. One of the
most important rules, from a safety point of view, is staying on the designated equestrian
trails. When you 4-hoof it through the forest, you increase your chances of hurting yourself
or your horse. Footing can be more dangerous in underbrush and leaves can hide that fact.
Fallen and rotting logs can hide snakes, spiders, and nesting areas for yellow jackets.
Instinct tells your horse that deep woods and thickets are hiding places for predators so
they might be more “spooky” in the woods than on the trail, increasing your chance of
accidents. Injured and young animals are often resting hidden in the woods, so you increase
your chance of a run in with a dangerous cornered, injured animal or a mother protecting
her young. Finally, and most importantly, if you get separated from your horse and/or
injured, you could be all but impossible to find.
Many people worry about dealing with wild animals, insects, snakes and spiders. Actually,
you don’t have a lot to fear from most of the wildlife. The biggest threat you have to deal
with is your horse spooking because of them. Turkey often cause horses to spook because
they are so loud and unexpected if flushed. Most wild animals will stay clear of you, unless
they are injured, feel threatened, or are mothers protecting their young. The most dangerous
thing you might have to deal with on the trail is wasps, bees, hornets or yellow jackets.
More people die every year from reactions to bee stings than all other wild animal
encounters put together. When encountering any stinging insect, do not yell “RUN!”, instead
yell “BEES!”. When you yell “run“, people tend to hang around and ask why. When you
yell “bees“, there’s no further explanation needed. Everyone should scatter, not all run
through the bees. Then you can pick your way around them and meet up on the other side.
Make a note of where they are located and warn everyone else you see.
Check your tack before each ride, making sure nothing is dry rotted, torn or corroded. Use
brass hardware to lesson corrosion problems. Carry leather strings or shoestrings for on the
trail repairs. Hay twine or a strand of hair from your horse’s tail can also be used in a pinch.
Be sure temporary repairs are repaired permanently or replaced when you get back to your
trailer or home. Check your horse’s cinch and horseshoes for tightness, not only when you
start, but periodically during the ride. Carry a easy boot or similar boot for a spare if you
loose a shoe. A correct sized piece of leather and duct tape can also get you back to the
trailer in an emergency. If you ride your horse with a tie down, unclip it before crossing a
creek. If they can’t lift their head the way they need to, they can drown.
Always leave your trip plans with family or friends and contact them if your plans change.
Fill out the trail registration information at the trailhead if available. If not, write a note with
your name, contact information, riding plans, etc., and leave on your truck’s windshield in a
Ziploc baggie. Also have information such as your name, emergency contact number,
important medical info (allergies and medical conditions), truck and trailer make and model
listed on a card in your saddlebags so if your horse makes it back to your trailer and you
don’t, the authorities will know who to look for and who to contact.
If you enjoy riding in the bigger, more remote wilderness areas, learn basic primitive survival
skills and a few tricks to help keep you from getting lost. Basic techniques that would be
helpful include: gathering food and water, making shelter and staying warm. These skills
could be essential and are easy to learn, being found in many books, on the internet, or by
talking to a boy scout. As you are riding, look at the trail behind you occasionally. If you
have to back track, you won’t be quite so confused because the trail looks totally different
in the opposite direction. Pick out landmarks and streams, and if needed, you can use
covert ways to mark the trail at an intersection if you are unsure which way to go. A small
pile of rocks, or an arrow sign made up of rocks are two ways to mark the trail without
making it obvious.
If you do find yourself on foot, lost or hurt. Don’t panic. The universal distress signal is 3 of
anything. 3 shouts, shots, whistles, etc. The best option is often a whistle because it can be
heard from so far away. If you should get hurt, stay put if possible. You don’t want to cause
further damage to yourself and it’ll be easier for someone to find you. If you don’t know the
area, stay put, even if you’re not hurt. Trying to find your way when you’re lost can
disorient you and cause you to walk even further away from the trailhead and help. If you
are unhurt and prepared with a map and compass, go ahead and try to get back to the
trailhead. Figure out which direction will get you back quicker, going forward or back the
way you came. Stay on the trail, don’t try to walk cross-country. That will increase your
chance of getting hurt or lost and make you hard to find if someone is out looking for you.
Finally, each year before riding season starts, when scheduling a visit from your vet for your
horse, also schedule a yearly physical for yourself, especially if you are not up to date on a
tetanus shot. Do what you can to get into good physical shape yourself. No matter how
many chores you do, if you don’t get aerobic exercise, especially walking, you will be
unprepared to hike back to the trailer if you get separated or have to lead your horse back.
Most great horse trails are NOT easy to hike. That’s what makes them such great riding
trails. It could be especially critical in the Ozark foothill wilderness areas.
The scenarios I’ve discussed here do not happen often. If you are a lucky person, you might
ride your whole life and have only minor irritating problems to deal with. But even if you
only have one major incident happen to you in a lifetime, being prepared with the
knowledge and items needed, to more easily handle the situation, might make all the
difference in the world.
trail riding is perfectly safe, so they don't take many precautions or learn what to do in an
emergency. Accidents do happen. It's not an issue of if; it's an issue of when and how bad.
Planning ahead and being prepared will help you avoid many accidents and help you better
deal with the ones that do happen. Going far beyond what’s in a good first aid kit, I’d like
to address some key points that will help your trail riding adventures be more comfortable
and safe.
Most equestrian related accidents can be traced back to some form of inattentiveness. Most
people assume that more accidents happen while in the saddle or while working with a
green horse. While many accidents do happen under those circumstances, the exact
opposite is actually more often true. Because we think of trail riding as a perfectly safe and
relaxing way to spend time with our horses, we let our guard down, especially when on the
ground or when riding our old, reliable bomb proof horse. We quit pro-actively riding and
often just become a passenger, paying very little attention to what’s going on around us or
what our horse is doing or seeing. That’s when accidents are more apt to happen.
Because of the seriousness of some of the injuries that can be sustained from horseback
riding, it’s always a good idea to know some basic first aid. The American Red Cross offers
first aid classes. They’re not free, but if you check your local newspaper, you can often find
classes in your area for a reasonable price. A First Responder Course and CPR would be
even better. At the very least, get a small first aid booklet, read through it before the need
arises, and keep it with your first aid kit. It’s a good idea to have two different first aid kits.
A larger one that you keep in your trailer, and a smaller one that you keep on you while you
are riding. The key words here being “on you”, not in saddlebags on your horse, especially
if you take any important medicines for conditions such as Asthma or Diabetes. Should you
get separated from your horse for any reason, your medicine will do you no good if it’s
back at the trailhead or out in the woods with your horse. I keep mine in a
small “survival” kit fanny pack that also includes such things as a map, compass, space
blanket, large handkerchief, water purifying pills, whistle, emergency poncho, small flash-
light, knife and an energy food bar. This is especially important if I’m riding a larger or more
remote trail. These things don’t take up much room, but can make a big difference in your
comfort and health if you have to hike very far or stay out over night. Carrying a cell phone
might be helpful, but most equestrian trails here are located in areas with little or no service.
Also, be sure you really know how to use a map and compass. Many people say they carry
one, but admit they don’t really know how to use it.
Missourians know how quickly the weather changes. Be prepared with the correct clothing
for the season you’re riding in and always take a rain poncho or slicker even if no rain is
forecasted. In early spring and late fall, dress in layers so you can remove or add items as
the temperatures change. Know the symptoms and treatment for heat exhaustion,
hypothermia, and frost bite for both humans and horses, if you enjoy riding in more extreme
temperatures. Consider wearing a helmet. They are being designed now for a better, cooler
fit and even come in designs that fit under cowboy hats for people who want the protection
but don’t like the look. Can you hike a mile or more in your cowboy boots? Not just walk,
but hike? Cowboy boots are standard wear for showing or western dancing, but aren’t
necessarily the best alternative for trail riding. Cowboy boots have a slick sole that can be a
hazard if hiking on slick rocks or in mud. Unless you have the money to have boots made
specifically for you, they can be uncomfortable if you find yourself hiking back because you
became separated from your horse or he was injured and needed to be led back to the
trailhead. You might consider the tennis shoes designed for horseback riding. Ariat is one
company that makes these shoes. Be sure to buy one with good ankle support
because you will definitely need that if hiking over rough terrain.
If you want to ride during hunting season, State Parks offer a safer alternative in most cases
since they normally do not allow hunting. They do however, occasionally close parks for
special hunts, call ahead before traveling very far and remember to be cautious if the trail
passes close to the park’s boundary because private land owners might be hunting on their
property. No matter where you ride during hunting season, always wear hunter orange and I
would highly suggest not riding anywhere on opening day or on the weekends.
In general, practicing good trail ethics will alleviate many chances for accidents. One of the
most important rules, from a safety point of view, is staying on the designated equestrian
trails. When you 4-hoof it through the forest, you increase your chances of hurting yourself
or your horse. Footing can be more dangerous in underbrush and leaves can hide that fact.
Fallen and rotting logs can hide snakes, spiders, and nesting areas for yellow jackets.
Instinct tells your horse that deep woods and thickets are hiding places for predators so
they might be more “spooky” in the woods than on the trail, increasing your chance of
accidents. Injured and young animals are often resting hidden in the woods, so you increase
your chance of a run in with a dangerous cornered, injured animal or a mother protecting
her young. Finally, and most importantly, if you get separated from your horse and/or
injured, you could be all but impossible to find.
Many people worry about dealing with wild animals, insects, snakes and spiders. Actually,
you don’t have a lot to fear from most of the wildlife. The biggest threat you have to deal
with is your horse spooking because of them. Turkey often cause horses to spook because
they are so loud and unexpected if flushed. Most wild animals will stay clear of you, unless
they are injured, feel threatened, or are mothers protecting their young. The most dangerous
thing you might have to deal with on the trail is wasps, bees, hornets or yellow jackets.
More people die every year from reactions to bee stings than all other wild animal
encounters put together. When encountering any stinging insect, do not yell “RUN!”, instead
yell “BEES!”. When you yell “run“, people tend to hang around and ask why. When you
yell “bees“, there’s no further explanation needed. Everyone should scatter, not all run
through the bees. Then you can pick your way around them and meet up on the other side.
Make a note of where they are located and warn everyone else you see.
Check your tack before each ride, making sure nothing is dry rotted, torn or corroded. Use
brass hardware to lesson corrosion problems. Carry leather strings or shoestrings for on the
trail repairs. Hay twine or a strand of hair from your horse’s tail can also be used in a pinch.
Be sure temporary repairs are repaired permanently or replaced when you get back to your
trailer or home. Check your horse’s cinch and horseshoes for tightness, not only when you
start, but periodically during the ride. Carry a easy boot or similar boot for a spare if you
loose a shoe. A correct sized piece of leather and duct tape can also get you back to the
trailer in an emergency. If you ride your horse with a tie down, unclip it before crossing a
creek. If they can’t lift their head the way they need to, they can drown.
Always leave your trip plans with family or friends and contact them if your plans change.
Fill out the trail registration information at the trailhead if available. If not, write a note with
your name, contact information, riding plans, etc., and leave on your truck’s windshield in a
Ziploc baggie. Also have information such as your name, emergency contact number,
important medical info (allergies and medical conditions), truck and trailer make and model
listed on a card in your saddlebags so if your horse makes it back to your trailer and you
don’t, the authorities will know who to look for and who to contact.
If you enjoy riding in the bigger, more remote wilderness areas, learn basic primitive survival
skills and a few tricks to help keep you from getting lost. Basic techniques that would be
helpful include: gathering food and water, making shelter and staying warm. These skills
could be essential and are easy to learn, being found in many books, on the internet, or by
talking to a boy scout. As you are riding, look at the trail behind you occasionally. If you
have to back track, you won’t be quite so confused because the trail looks totally different
in the opposite direction. Pick out landmarks and streams, and if needed, you can use
covert ways to mark the trail at an intersection if you are unsure which way to go. A small
pile of rocks, or an arrow sign made up of rocks are two ways to mark the trail without
making it obvious.
If you do find yourself on foot, lost or hurt. Don’t panic. The universal distress signal is 3 of
anything. 3 shouts, shots, whistles, etc. The best option is often a whistle because it can be
heard from so far away. If you should get hurt, stay put if possible. You don’t want to cause
further damage to yourself and it’ll be easier for someone to find you. If you don’t know the
area, stay put, even if you’re not hurt. Trying to find your way when you’re lost can
disorient you and cause you to walk even further away from the trailhead and help. If you
are unhurt and prepared with a map and compass, go ahead and try to get back to the
trailhead. Figure out which direction will get you back quicker, going forward or back the
way you came. Stay on the trail, don’t try to walk cross-country. That will increase your
chance of getting hurt or lost and make you hard to find if someone is out looking for you.
Finally, each year before riding season starts, when scheduling a visit from your vet for your
horse, also schedule a yearly physical for yourself, especially if you are not up to date on a
tetanus shot. Do what you can to get into good physical shape yourself. No matter how
many chores you do, if you don’t get aerobic exercise, especially walking, you will be
unprepared to hike back to the trailer if you get separated or have to lead your horse back.
Most great horse trails are NOT easy to hike. That’s what makes them such great riding
trails. It could be especially critical in the Ozark foothill wilderness areas.
The scenarios I’ve discussed here do not happen often. If you are a lucky person, you might
ride your whole life and have only minor irritating problems to deal with. But even if you
only have one major incident happen to you in a lifetime, being prepared with the
knowledge and items needed, to more easily handle the situation, might make all the
difference in the world.
| Copyright 2006 Missouri Trailblazing.com. All Rights Reserved |
| If this information was helpful to you, please help support Missouri Trailblazing: |
| We Thank you!!! |