Be safe in the countryside

Safety is an important consideration for everyone when out riding. Listed here are some basic safety tips but we do advise you to visit the British Horse Society (link opens in a new window) website for more detailed safety information. We also recommend that you take the BHS Riding and Road Safety Test.(Link opens in a new window).

• Leave details of your intended route and estimated time of return with a responsible person.
• If riding alone take a mobile phone with you.
• Wear correctly fitted protective headgear to currently approved standards (current standards BS EN1384, PAS015 or ASTM F1163), a shoe with a small heel and instep and consider wearing a BETA standard body protector.
• Ride on the left hand side of the road even when preparing to turn right. Do not ride more than two abreast, use clear and accurate hand signals and be courteous to other road users.
• Avoid busy main roads whenever possible.
• Have knowledge of the Highway Code, especially rules 35 to 41, and always follow the Code.
• Wear high visibility fluorescent clothing on roads. Avoid riding in fog, failing light or darkness.
• Check your tack for weak stitching, wear and cracking.