COMMON SENSE SAFETY TIPS

I had good responses to the last post, so thought to share some more working ideas today:

How to Avoid accidents when working with horses is my subject for this post.
Some common suggestions:
-Never work alone if it can be avoided but if you must: be certain that someone knows where you are and notify them when you have finished your work session
-Always tie safety knots (quick releases) or, if working with a horse trained to be clipped, use a 'quick release' clip
-Do not leave the Horse tied and alone
-NEVER tie the Horse to yourself in any fashion
-Do not 'surprise' the horse, speak before touching or handling
-If you do not 'know' the Horse--do not try to handle the Horse
-Dress properly, equestrian clothing is designed for equestrian work
-Be aware of Fire Hazards such as: hay should be stored away from stalls and other working areas; manure piles should be in the open; bedding should be dry when spread and stored in an area away from stalling boxes

In fourty years of working in the Equine business I have seen some accidents that could have been avoided; people injured, horses injured, barns burned, even cars damaged! Since the first observation I have included SAFETY TIPS in all of my instructions to spread general knowledge and help horsepeople become aware and seek to avoid difficulties in a sport which carries inherent danger, without additional casualness in work/enjoyment of the sport.
If you want to discuss any other points on safety or problems which you are coping with now, please feel free to comment!
I want to encourage you to use the tips; take care of YOU AND YOUR HORSE...THANK YOU and HAPPY TRAILS TODAY, PH