Program Support Volunteers | For Sidewalkers and Horse Handlers
Emergency procedures help us respond quickly, calmly, and consistently when something unexpected happens.
While emergencies are rare, knowing when to pause activities or move into a stronger sidewalker hold can prevent small concerns from becoming bigger safety issues. In some situations, an emergency dismount may be required to protect the participant, horse, and team. Volunteers play an important role by recognizing changes, following instructor direction immediately, and using practiced responses to support safe outcomes.
Below are three options that we utilize in sessions to ensure safety, listed from the least disruptive to most disruptive to session activities.
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If a situation arises where extra support is needed but a full pause of the activity isn’t necessary, volunteers may shift into a Strong Hold. This typically occurs when a participant or horse shows signs of instability or needs additional assistance to continue safely. Using a Strong Hold helps ensure safety while allowing the lesson or activity to continue under controlled conditions.
You might use this when…
There is a potential “spook” hazard nearby (e.g. a deer in the pasture, a helicopter overhead)
A participant is showing increased signs of physical fatigue or less predictable behavior
Volunteer actions:
Sidewalkers move into an arm over thigh hold (with gait belt support, if one is present)
Horse handler keeps the horse moving forward focused and calm
Maintain clear communication with the instructor/therapist
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When a situation may escalate to the need to dismount or it would be unsafe for others in the arena to continue movement-based activities, a “Pause” may be called.
You might use this when…
Another participant is being emergency dismounted in the arena
Another participant or horse is no longer under safe control in the arena
Your participant has increased physical needs or behaviors that may need addressed
Volunteer actions:
Sidewalkers move into an arm over thigh hold (with gait belt support, if one is present)
Horse handler heads their horse and keeps them still and calm
Maintain clear communication with the instructor/therapist
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An emergency dismount is used when a participant’s safety is at immediate risk or the horse becomes uncontrollable. Staying calm and communicating clearly is essential to protect everyone involved.
You might use this when…
Your participant has become unbalanced to the point that guiding them off is safer than keeping them on
There is a tack malfunction (e.g. bridle or girth breaks)
There is a medical or behavior issue that is more safely managed off of the horse
Volunteer actions:
Off Side Sidewalker - Assists with removing stirrup and shifting participant towrds on side sidewalker
On Side Sidewalker - Guides participant off of horse and stays with participant
Horse handler keeps horse moving forward away from the dismounted rider
Remain calm, focused, and attentive to directives from instructor/therapist
Emergency Dismount: Step-by-Step
Emergency Dismount: Real-Time Demonstration
Other Safety Supplies
Other situations can arise that may warrant other safety supplies. Check the chart below for the location of:
Emergency Phone + Important Numbers
Fire Extinguisher
Human First Aid Kit + AED + CPR Masks
Horse First Aid Kit