GENERAL SAfety

• Never leave small children unattended on or around any horse. No matter how calm and kid safe the horse is, accidents happen. Always ride with either your instructor or an experienced adult present.    
• Riding a suitable horse for your riding level is very important for the safety of both you and the horse.
• Always wear a correctly fitted helmet. 
• When riding in a group always keep a safe distance away from other horses, usually a horse length. This helps avoid biting and kicking.
• If the horse becomes too agitated for you to handle the situation, either ask for help or make an emergency dismount.
• Wearing good sturdy boots around the barn can, quite literally, make or break your toes! 
• Loud sounds and sudden movements can cause a horse to spook. If possible avoid running, jumping and picking up 'scary' objects - tarps, flags, water hoses, etc.
• Do not stand directly behind the horse and avoid standing by the flanks. Staying at their shoulder is the safest.
• Be aware of your surroundings and always be wary of other horses and people around you.
• Never loop the lead rope or reins around your hands or any part of your body. 
• When walking through a narrow doorway while leading a horse, go through before your horse, making them wait until you give the cue to follow. 

Arena Rules

• When approaching someone head on in the arena, pass by them on the left hand side to avoid a horsie collision!
• If you are passing someone from behind, pass on the inside of them - closest to the center of the arena - and let them know what you are doing. 
• When stopping while others are riding in the arena move to the middle or into a corner to stay out of the other riders way.
• Be aware of your surroundings and where you are in relation to the other riders. This enables you to think fast to keep yourself and your fellow riders safe.
• Only 2 horses at a time in the indoor round pen.
• Be respectful of fellow riders and your instructor when participating in equine activity.