New safety scheme for BHS members launched

Rider safety has received a boost thanks to a new initiative from the British Horse Society (BHS).

All 70,000 members of the BHS will this month be offered free membership to the British Equestrian ID Service (BEIDS), which provides 24/7 emergency support to riders in the event of an incident.

Members will receive a new membership card from the BHS with details on how to register for BEIDS. Once this is done, the card acts as identification if an injured rider, horse or piece of lost property is found. The BEIDS hotline then alerts next of kin and family members, plus vets and the yard if a horse is found without its rider. Members will also have the opportunity to buy wristbands, saddle toggles and stickers at an additional cost to help identify themselves, their horses and their property.

BHS director of access and safety Mark Weston said: “Whilst every rider hopes they will never be involved in an accident when out riding, the service provides the reassurance that if an incident occurs there should be no delay, once the rider is found, with administering appropriate medical treatment, contacting the rider’s nominated persons about the accident and collection of the horse.”

To find out more about BEIDS, visit www.beids.co.uk

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