Meeker County 4-H’er Ally Eblen has a passion for horses, and along with that, staying safe while riding and interacting with them. With her involvement in the Meeker County 4-H horse project, she recognized a need for education about helmet safety. 4-H requires all members to wear a helmet while riding, however she has noticed that not all own a helmet or have a properly fitted helmet. As a result, she created ‘HAY – Helmet Awareness for Youth’.
She has been busy writing grants and raising funds to provide free helmets to community members who are in need of a properly fitting helmet. Recipients are asked to participate in a safety event that will take place during the Meeker County Fair on Sunday, Aug. 5 at 1 p.m., at the Horse Arena.
Ally would like to encourage any youth who owns a horse, or has frequent contact with horses through riding lessons or other opportunities to attend this event. Adults are also welcome to attend, however youth will be the priority helmet recipients. Ally states, “It’s important for youth and adults to know why wearing helmets is so important. They shouldn’t wear them just because it’s a 4-H rule. Helmets need to fit properly, be worn properly and be replaced for specific reasons. Do you know the reasons?”
You may pre-register at z.umn.edu/hayregistration by July 25, to secure your helmet. Those who pre-register will have first priority to receive helmets. More details about the event are available at z.umn.edu/hay, or by contacting the Meeker County Extension Office at (320) 693-5275.