Horseback Riding Safety Tips for Campers

At Hiram House Camp, we seamlessly blend adventure with safety! As our campers prepare for the thrill of horseback riding, it’s essential they are equipped with crucial safety knowledge. Here are some key tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Let’s saddle up for a fun, safe ride!

Helmet Fitting

A properly fitted helmet is your best friend when riding. Follow these steps to ensure a secure fit:

• Try it On: Place the helmet on your head. It should fit snugly but not be uncomfortable.
• Adjust Padding: Use the inner padding to adjust the fit. The helmet should sit level on your head, with the brim about an inch above your eyebrows.
• Check Straps: Adjust the chin strap so it forms a “V” under your ears and fits snugly under your jaw.
• Test Fit: Make sure the helmet doesn’t wobble and that the buckle is securely locked.

Mounting and Dismounting

Mounting and dismounting correctly is essential for both your safety and the horse’s comfort:

• Check the Girth: Ensure the girth is tight enough that only three fingers can fit between it and the horse.
• Use a Mounting Block: If available, use a mounting block to make the process easier.
• Mounting: Face the horse, place your left foot in the stirrup, and hold the reins and mane with your left hand. Swing your right leg over the horse and gently sit down.
• Dismounting: Reverse the process. Take your right foot out of the stirrup, hold the reins and mane, swing your right leg over, and gently slide to the ground.

Approaching and Interacting with Horses

Horses are magnificent creatures, but they require respect and understanding:

• Approach from the Side: Always approach a horse from the side, avoiding its blind spots directly in front and behind.
• Speak Softly: Talk to the horse as you approach to alert it to your presence.
• Touch Gently: Start by touching the horse on the neck or shoulder with a firm but gentle stroking motion.
• Let the Horse Sniff: Allow the horse to sniff you before petting it.
• Stay Alert: Keep your hand on the horse at all times, especially when walking behind it.

Emergency Procedures
In case of an emergency, stay calm and follow the instructions from your instructor and counselor.

Additional Tips from Hiram House Camp

At Hiram House Camp, we emphasize personalized attention and a safe learning environment. Our experienced instructors guide campers every step of the way, ensuring that each rider feels confident and secure. We offer western-based lessons for beginners, youth, and adults aged 5 and up. Our program focuses on horsemanship and horse welfare, teaching skills in horse health, care, and behavior, as well as stable etiquette.

By following these safety tips and learning from our experienced instructors, our campers can enjoy a fun and safe horseback riding experience. Remember, safety is our top priority, and with the right practices, we can all have a fantastic time at the camp!