How to Attend to a Fallen Rider

No matter what the exercise, riders need to be aware that each time they mount up, they are taking a risk. Horseback riding is a practice in versatility and concentration from one moment to the next. There is always the possibility that an accident may occur. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• A first aid kit, if available

Immediate Reaction

1. A rider on the ground is in a dangerous position. Promptly call for all activity in the arena or immediate area to stop and stand still, as more accidents could occur in the surrounding confusion or cause further injury to the fallen rider.
2. Your first concern needs to be protecting the person on the ground from further injury by their own horse or others around them. Being caught underfoot is the surest way for the rider to incur serious injury, even he or she was not damaged by the fall. You should immediately go to the unseated rider and have them remain still, as neck or back injuries might not be immediately evident and it may be dangerous to move them even a little.
3. At the same time, keep a close eye on the horse that is now running loose. Many horses will panic or become overly excited at the loss of their rider and continue moving on their own, sometimes at breakneck speeds. Be prepared to shoo a confused and frightened horse away from the area around the fallen rider, as well as protecting yourself from accidental injury.
4. If other riders or onlookers can safely catch the loose horse, ask them to do so. A horse running loose is also a danger to itself, as loose reins and stirrup leathers can easily entangle the horse and cause him to trip or fall.
5. Assess the rider's condition to the best of your ability. Ask him or her to slowly move just their fingers or toes, feel for warmth in the appendages, note the complexion and amount of alertness in the eyes. In a calm and collected tone, begin asking specific questions--such as whether or not they can feel their toes, where they feel the most pain, or something as simple as having them recount their name and address. It helps to ascertain the person's level of injury and also to avoid general panic by keeping their attention focused and constructive. Sometimes they may simply need to calm their nerves and recover their senses, and are ready to get right back on the horse.
6. It often helps to reassure the person that riders at every level fall at times and observe the ways in which they passed through the challenge well. Relating your own experiences of taking a spill will do wonders to put them at ease. Explain that bruising and soreness is to be expected, and be aware that tingling, numbness or trembling might simply be due to the rush of adrenalin that accompanies a fall. Encourage deep, slow breathing while the person remains on the ground calm away these temporary sensations and encourage awareness of areas that may be seriously injured.
7. If serious injury or broken bones are evident, call an ambulance or take the person to the nearest emergency room. Likewise, if they appear sleepy, their eyes glaze, or their hands and feet become cold or their face becomes pale, have someone call emergency services immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Horseback riding is an inherently dangerous activity and the nature of the animals makes them unpredictable, even for the most seasoned professional. This activity is undertaken at the rider's own risk, and should only be attempted while wearing adequate safety gear and under the supervision of an experienced instructor.