What Should You Do If a Rider Is Seriously Injured While Out Riding?

If a rider is seriously injured:

Call 999 immediately

No phone signal?

• Move to higher ground if safe to do so.
• Try sending a text message, which may work when calls won't.
• Send the most experienced rider to find a signal or nearest property, road, or farm (if this is an option).
• Never leave the injured rider alone unless there is absolutely no alternative and emergency help cannot otherwise be summoned.

Satellite Calling (UK)

• Availability depends on your phone model, software version & network provider.
• Some systems allow emergency text messaging via satellite rather than a direct voice call.
• You should not assume your phone has this capability unless you have checked and tested the feature beforehand.
• If your phone supports satellite emergency services, follow the on-screen instructions when no mobile network is available.

If the rider is becoming drowsy, confused, or losing consciousness

These may be signs of a serious head injury, shock, or internal bleeding.

• Keep them still and warm.
• Reassure them and keep talking to them.
• Do not give them food or drink.
• Monitor their breathing and responsiveness until help arrives.
• If they become unconscious and are breathing normally, follow guidance from the emergency call handler.

 If there is severe bleeding

• Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth, bandage, clothing, or even your hand if necessary.
• Maintain pressure continuously.
• If blood soaks through, apply additional layers rather than removing the original dressing.
• Signs of shock include pale skin, weakness, rapid breathing, sweating, and confusion. Keep the casualty warm and lying down if possible.

Do not move the rider unless there is immediate danger

What should you do with the horses?

• Allocate one or two calm, experienced people to take charge of all horses – hold/lead the injured riders horse if possible.
• Move horses a safe distance away from the casualty – if the air ambulance is expected remove horses to a safe place.
• Keep horses quiet and under control (either mounted or dismount, whichever is safest)
• If horses are loose:
• Attempt to catch them if it is safe to do so.
• Prioritise the injured rider over recovering horses.
• Alert nearby road users if horses have escaped onto roads.

Use the people around you

• One person calls emergency services.
• One person stays with the casualty.
• One person manages horses.
• One person directs emergency responders to the scene.

Help emergency services find you

• Carry a fully charged phone.
• Download What3Words.
• Wear ID and emergency contact details.
• Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.
• Ride with a basic first aid kit if possible.