Summer Safety Tips at the Barn

Summer is one of our favorite times of year at Making Strides Foundation. With lessons, workshops, camps and special events like our annual Charity Horse Show in full swing, we look forward to welcoming everyone to the barn. As temperatures rise, taking a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe, comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable water bottle and drink water throughout your visit. Staying hydrated before, during and after outdoor activities helps prevent heat-related illness and keeps you feeling your best.

Dress for the Weather

Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that allows you to stay cool while remaining comfortable around the horses. Closed-toe shoes are required at all times for safety.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

Apply sunscreen before arriving and consider bringing extra sunscreen for longer visits. Sunglasses and hats can also provide additional protection during outdoor activities.

Be Prepared for Bugs

Summer weather often brings mosquitoes and other insects. Applying insect repellent before your visit can help make your time at the barn more enjoyable.

Take Advantage of Cool Spaces

If you need a break from the heat, take time to cool off in shaded areas, near fans or in our temperature-controlled viewing room. Rest breaks are encouraged, especially on particularly warm days.

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Watch for symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive fatigue or unusual sweating. If you or your child begin feeling unwell, notify a staff member immediately so we can assist.

Follow Barn Safety Guidelines

Always walk calmly around horses, listen carefully to staff instructions and remain aware of your surroundings. These simple practices help keep everyone safe and create a positive experience for participants, volunteers and visitors.

Weather-Related Schedule Changes

The safety of our participants, volunteers, staff and horses is our top priority. If severe weather, extreme heat, lightning or other unsafe conditions occur, lessons, workshops, camps and events may be modified, delayed or canceled. During periods of excessive heat, riding lessons may be adapted to include unmounted activities, horse education, grooming barn skills and other engaging learning experiences to help keep participants and horses safe and comfortable. We will communicate any schedule changes as quickly as possible through email, social media and other appropriate channels.

Our Horses Stay Cool, Too!

The well-being of our horses is always a top priority. During the summer months, we provide plenty of fresh water, access to shade, fans and rest periods throughout the day. Our staff closely monitor weather conditions and each horse's comfort level, adjusting activities when necessary to help keep our equine partners healthy, comfortable and ready to support our participants. This may include reducing workloads, scheduling additional breaks or modifying programming during periods of extreme heat.

By working together and taking a few extra precautions, we can ensure a fun, safe, and memorable summer at the barn for everyone—including our horses. We look forward to seeing you this summer!