Every year, millions of Americans participate in horseback riding activities. Riders are often six feet above the ground on horses weighing more than 1,000 pounds capable of 35 miles-per-hour speeds. So while horseback riding can be very enjoyable, there are inherent dangers in working with horses.
In 2007, 78,000 people were seen in U.S. emergency rooms due to horse-related injuries; 9,600 of those were admitted to the hospital for further treatment.
What can you do to prevent yourself from visiting the emergency room? Learn more about horseback riding and horse handling safety. This safety brochure was developed in coordination with the University of Kentucky's "Saddle Up Safely" program.
Download the Horseback Riding Safety brochure
About "Saddle Up Safely"
Saddle Up SAFELY is a new rider safety awareness program sponsored by UK HealthCare, the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture and many community organizations.
Horseback riding is an extremely rewarding and thrilling sport, but it should be safe as well. Through Saddle Up SAFELY, UK HealthCare seeks to educate current and future riders about the simple steps that can be taken to prevent accidents.
For more information on the Saddle up SAFELY program, visit www.saddleupsafely.org
