Equestrian:Marshaling on the field - Safety

Safety

1. The arena/equestrian area itself can cause safety problems.
   1. Before the activity begins, look over the area where the riding (or driving) will take place. Look particularly for large holes, soft spots, mud and rocks. Try to keep equestrians away from these areas.
   2. If the hazards are serious, move the activity.
2. For combat or jousting, as the riders come on to the field take a quick look to see if they have their full armor. This isn't the full inspection, just a quick double-check to help someone who could have been distracted by the excitement of the day.
3. Once the combat/joust has started, watch for broken armor, lost tempers, injuries, and intrusions into the field. Non-participants, especially small children and pets, do not always realize that they are supposed to stay off of the field.
4. If there is a problem, shout "Hold!", several times if necessary. Most people will hear and respond to a cry of "Hold!" even when they won't notice their own names being called.
5. Excessive use of aids such as repeated and/or forceful kicking, slapping, whipping, spurring, yanking, and/or pulling indicates the horse may be outside of that rider/driver's capabilities.
6. If a rider/driver accidentally strikes other horses with their weapon or equipment repeatedly, warn them to modify their actions or remove themselves from the field. If it continues, remove them from the activity. In a competitive scenario, this may result in them forfeiting a match.
7. Blatant violations of the rules and safety concerns should always be brought up either immediately, with a "Hold" called if necessary for safety issues, or if they can wait, until an appropriate time for rules discussion after the bout or activity.