New resource supports emergency response in equestrian sports

The Sports Institute at UW Medicine has launched The GamePlan: Emergency Response in Equestrian Sports, a free educational film series designed to help equestrian communities prepare for and respond to serious injuries. The 12-module series is available online and can be used for educational and training purposes. 

Horseback riding carries a risk of head and spinal injuries, and emergency response can be especially challenging because incidents often occur in remote locations and around large animals. The new series addresses those challenges through practical, scenario-based training for riders, horse owners, competition officials, volunteers, bystanders, emergency medical services personnel, and others involved in equestrian events. 

Produced by The Sports Institute in partnership with Seattle Fire Department Medic One and the U.S. Eventing Association Foundation, the film series covers a range of emergency situations, including remote-location incidents, arena and cross-country responses, water rescues, emergency action planning, and techniques for safely assisting injured riders. 

The equestrian series is the third installment in The GamePlan film series, which provides free educational resources focused on emergency response in sports settings.