Trailer-Safety Resources
Reflective Signs
Caution Horses Safety
Products, Inc.
(561) 784-9147;
www.cautionhorses.com
Protective Gear
Dover Saddlery
800) 406-8204;
www.doversaddlery.com
Jeffers
(800) 533-3377;
www.jeffersequine.com
State Line Tack
(888) 839-9640;
10. Use ICE. Make use of the ICE program; ICE stands for "in case of emergency." This simple program is designed to help emergency responders identify victims and determine who needs to be notified. Make it easy for first responders to know who to contact for information on handling your horse: Program an entry into your cell phone called "ICE - Horse." Key in the contact information of someone with the authority to make decisions about your horse's care, should you become incapacitated.
11. Draw up a power-of-attorney document. In conjunction with the ICE program, initiate a power-of-attorney document with a trusted friend or relative. If you become incapacitated, this will provide for your horse's emergency medical treatment. Also, prepare the corresponding Notice to Emergency Responders document. Keep copies of both documents in the glove box of your tow vehicle. (Both forms are available for download free from the USRider website, right).
12. Hitch up safely. Improper hitching is a common cause of trailer accidents. Use a hitch that's the correct type, size, and rating to match the coupler. Make sure the hitch is properly installed onto your towing vehicle. Securely fasten the safety chains and breakaway switch actuating chain.
13. Balance your load. An unbalanced load can cause a trailer to overturn in an accident. When loading your trailer, load the heaviest cargo on the left. If you're loading only one horse, load him on the left side of the trailer. After loading, secure trailer doors and hatches.
14. Use protective gear. To help ensure your horse's safety, always apply shipping boots and a head bumper.
15. Carry a first-aid kit. Carry a current veterinar ian-approved first aid kit. Recommendations for such a kit are listed in the Equine Travel Safety Area on the USRider website, below.
For additional safety tips, visit the Equine Travel Safety Area - created by Neva Kittrell Scheve and James Hamilton, DVM - on the USRider website at www.usrider.org. USRider provides roadside assistance and towing services, along with other travel-related benefits, to its members through the Equestrian Motor Plan. It includes standard features, such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance, and lock-out services, plus towing up to 100 miles, roadside repairs, emergency stabling, veterinary referrals, and more. For more information, call (800) 844-1409, or visit the website listed above.
