It is not only illness which can affect us when we are abroad, but we should also be mindful of the other dangers that are present. We need to keep safe during activities, take extra care with our valuables and money, and be aware of the pitfalls of travelling by road air and sea. This next section will provide you with general advice on how to keep safe whilst on holiday!

Keeping safe whilst doing activities

Biking whilst on Holiday

Biking is a great way to get around many parts of the world offer lots of scenic bike routes. However, biking is also a contributor to a great many accidents, a large number of these are children. By taking precautions we can minimise the risk to us and our children when we cycle.

- Wear a helmet! It is believed to reduce the severity of head injuries by up to 85 per cent.
- Wear the correct clothing and protection such as: riding cloves, knee and elbow pads and High visibility clothing
- Make sure that you have Lights and reflectors (not one or the other) - front and rear and on the spokes.
- Bell/horn - even if they can't see you, they may hear you, especially pedestrians who step onto the road or cycle lane without checking.
- When parking a bike, make sure they do it on the pavement, not on the kerb as leaning over can put them in the path of a car.
- Take a puncture repair kit and a pump.
- If there are dedicated cycle paths then use them instead of the road.
- Always be aware of traffic. Do not listen to music or talk on a mobile phone when cycling.
- Make sure that you use hand signals to indicate to cars where you are.

Horse Riding

Whilst on holiday we often decide to take part in activities these can be some of our regular hobbies or a totally new experience, such as horse riding.

Before embarking on horse riding you must make sure that you are properly equipped and it is best to use a riding school that are reputable, who can offer proper instruction for those of you that need it.
If you are new or an old hat at riding you should ensure that you and the horse are properly attired! Your helmet must fit properly and the stirrups must be at adjusted to the correct length for your body type; the bottom of the stirrup should be at your ankle when sat on the horse. Long trousers are better than shorts, and solid footwear such as wellies should be worn, for you sake and the horses!

Its best to take a mobile phone and first aid kit if you are riding in remote areas in case of accidents.
You should acquaint yourself with the horse’s personality before riding it. This will make you aware of any sensitivities that the horse has, such as not liking cars, you will be more prepared to be control the horse.

Be aware of issues, which could affect you from claiming for insurance. You may have obtained holiday insurance, which does not cover you for accidents incurred whilst riding. If you know that you are going to go riding before you obtain your insurance then it is best to check with the insurance provider as to whether you will be covered. Be wary of anything, which the riding school requires you to sign before you ride which excludes their liability of excluding accidents, which you suffer.