2008-08-18

Safety Requirements for Trail Riding Establishments

(as recommended by the OEF)

[ ] liability insurance (review proof)
[ ] release forms
[ ] signage about safety-around-horse rules (disucssed & understood by participants)
[ ] fire precautions, evacuation procedures
[ ] safe hazardous material storage
[ ] minimum age of 10 for riders (6 yrs if ponied by staff)
[ ] horses known to be safe, sound and schooled for activity
[ ] no stallions, lame, sick or blind horses, or horses under 5 yrs
[ ] maximum rider weight per horse, horse selection based on aptitude, size etc. (max 1 rider per horse!)
[ ] suitable, well fitted tack in good repair (bareback is not allowed, stirrups much fit foot etc)
[ ] helmets, suitable footwear
[ ] mounting blocks recommended. staff to hold horse while rider mounts
[ ] dismounting during rides discouraged, staff assistance required
[ ] min 2 guides per ride, ratio of 1:5
[ ] functional 2 way communication with stable
[ ] first aid training
[ ] walk uphill and downhill, walk towards barn last 5 min
[ ] staff and guides conversant with accident protocols and accident forms (witnesses etc.)