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McCormick Research Institute Volunteer Handbook Page i

Table of Contents

History .......................................................... 1

Equine-Assisted Activities ............................. 2

General Volunteer Information ..................... 3

Your Commitment ........................................ 7

Volunteer Training and Guidelines ................ 8

Getting to Know the Clients ........................ 13

Safety Protocols and Procedures ................ 15

Understanding our Equine Partner ............. 19

Glossary of Equine Terminology .................. 20

Equine Anatomy ......................................... 22

Risk Management Planning ......................... 24

Frequently Asked Questions ....................... 28

McCormick Research Institute Volunteer Handbook Page 1

History

The McCormick Research Institute’s mission is to serve individuals with special needs and

Veterans struggling with PTSD in programs known respectively as Heavenly Hooves and Horses

& Heroes. Our vision is to reduce suicide rates among veterans and strengthen families that

include an individual with special needs by expanding access to effective equine-assisted

therapies worldwide. We have served over 20,000 riders utilizing 14 horses and the assistance

of more than 200 community volunteers.

McCormick is a non-profit 501(c)(3) equestrian center that was established in 2002 and was

originally known as Heavenly Hooves. Horse enthusiast Thomasa Tompkins Sanchez was the

center’s founder and continues today as volunteer CEO. From 2002 to 2005 the organization

transported horses to Give Kids the World Village four times a week to provide equine-

supported therapies for terminally ill children in a program dubbed The Pony Express.

In 2006 the organization moved to Osceola Heritage Park and added their second service,

therapeutic riding, which provided ongoing mental, physical, and emotional therapies to

individuals with disabilities. In 2011 McCormick began collaborating with the UCF College of

Medicine and introduced research and education programs. As well, in 2011 the Horses &

Heroes program was established to serve Veterans with PTSD.

In 2016 War Room Ministries was established to provide Chaplain Services to the McCormick

Community. As well, in 2016 the organization moved to Chisholm Park in St. Cloud, Florida, in

partnership with Osceola County and UCF College of Medicine. The 40-acre equestrian center

consists of a covered arena with pavilion, a larger outdoor arena, a round pen, a 14-stall barn,

office space, a community room, a meeting/therapy room, tack and feed rooms, restrooms,

pastures, and riding trails.


Enhances:

• Physical endurance

• Emotional wellbeing

• Educational skills

Equine-Assisted Activities

Equine-assisted activities use horses, both mounted and unmounted, to achieve the following

goals.

Horses move in a rhythmic motion that mimics a human’s gait. While riding, a horse’s stride

moves the rider's pelvis in the same rotation and side-to-side movement that occurs when

walking. A horse’s adjustable gait encourages riders to constantly adjust the speed to achieve

the desired pelvic motion. Though riding is very beneficial, students do not necessarily have to

ride to achieve the desired effects of therapy. Horses can act as an aid by giving those with

disabilities a companion to care for. Even the act of grooming the horse, such as brushing,

bathing, and currying, can aid in joint range of motion and have a relaxing and calming effect.

All instructors at McCormick have been certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic

Horsemanship, International (PATH Intl.) and participate in ongoing education. Our group

therapy lessons are designed to improve a variety of skills while instilling a sense of

accomplishment in every student. We aim to offer an experience that is fun and interactive and

involves riding, unmounted activities, grooming, and games.

Promotes:

• Balance

• Coordination

• Flexibility

• Confidence

Strengthens:

• Social skills

• Core muscles

• Fine motor skills

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horse


General Volunteer Information

Prior to service, volunteers must complete all forms deemed necessary by McCormick,

complete a background check, undergo orientation, and be assigned a volunteer level—

identified by a colored sticker on their ID badge.

What Do Volunteers Do?

Barn Worker

Without our horses, there would not be equine therapy! The welfare of our animals is a top

priority at McCormick. To do this role, you must participate in our General Orientation. You

must also be reliable, so that we know you’ll be there when you sign up to be there. Days at the

barn can be hot—so endurance is key. We promise not to work you to death! Volunteers can

help care for the horses through:

• Feeding

• Cleaning stalls

• Grooming and tacking

• General barn chores

Side Walker

This volunteer position is vital to our students. Depending on the rider’s ability, they may

require one, two, or no side walkers. Your primary responsibility is the student and their safety.

To do this role, besides our General Orientation, you must take three training series: Lift

Training, Take the Lead, & Emergency

Dismounting. You must also have good

communication skills, so that you are able

to provide feedback to your leader and to

the instructor. Some of your

responsibilities include:


• Assisting the students with their helmets

• Acting as the instructor’s aid while a student mounts and dismounts

• Assisting the student in balancing on the horse, using the appropriate holds

• Following the instructor’s directions during a lesson and assisting the student only when asked to help promote independence

Horse Leader

This position requires previous horse experience, a good level of maturity, and cannot be

performed by all volunteers. Your focus is to be on the horse, not the student. To do this role,

besides our General Orientation, you must take three training series: Lift Training, Take the

Lead, & Emergency Dismounting. Some of your responsibilities include:

• Leading the horse in a minimum 5-minute warm-up before each lesson

• Maintaining control of your horse at all times

• Understanding the horse’s body language

• Monitoring the horse’s breathing, soundness, and overall disposition

• Bringing up any concerns about the horse’s welfare to a staff member

Volunteer Captain

Those volunteers that have been serving the organization for years and/or show a great

amount of responsibility and horse knowledge may be promoted to volunteer captain. Those

chosen individuals may have many responsibilities, such as training new volunteers, assisting in

orientations, and helping recruit new volunteers.

Volunteer Levels

As a new volunteer, once you have completed your orientation, the volunteer manager will

assign you a color level. Periodically these levels will be reevaluated to appropriately promote

volunteers up through the levels. To reach Level 3, a

volunteer must participate in the Taking the Lead

class. There are some requirements to be a side-

walker or leader during classes, these include

availability, reliability, strength, endurance, and

communication skills.


Level 1: RED

• New volunteers, less than 10 hours, on probation

• Need assistance removing horses from stalls/cross ties

• Need additional training on grooming and tacking

• Can do basic barn chores (need someone to remove horse for them to clean stalls)

Level 2: YELLOW

• Everything a Red can do

• Side walking (shadowing)

• Can remove horses from stalls and cross ties

• Assist with feeding as directed by staff only

• Barn chores (still must remove horses from stalls)

Level 3: GREEN

• Everything a Yellow can do

• Can side walk in lessons

• Leading (shadowing)

• Can lead horses to/from pastures upon direction from staff/lead volunteer (not lessons)

• Barn chores (still must remove horses from stalls)

Level 4: BLUE

• Everything a Green can do

• Can lead in lessons

• Can lunge and exercise horses (as directed by staff only)

• Basic wound care with staff/lead volunteer direction

What You Should Expect:

• To have fun

• To learn

• To feel needed

• To be outside in the heat and cold

• To get dirty

• To make a BIG difference in peoples’ lives

• To make mistakes and to learn from them

• To love and be loved


You Are an Extension of Our Staff

We consider you to be an extension of our staff. So much so, we put you on our org chart!


Your Commitment

Our mission relies heavily on dependable volunteers; they are an essential part in our day-to-day

operation. Our students cannot ride unless the lesson is adequately staffed. To assure that each of

our students has the opportunity to participate in the program, volunteers must be willing to

commit to the positions for which they sign up.

We understand that illnesses or other conflicts can occur and may prevent you from being able to

serve. If that situation arises, please remove your name from the applicable volunteer spot on the

McVIC (McCormick Volunteer Information Center) calendar, or contact the volunteer

coordinator at least 24 hours before scheduled assignment so that a substitute can be found.

WE REQUIRE THAT ALL

CELL PHONES BE ON

SILENT OR TURNED OFF

WHILE AT THE BARN DUE

TO THE POSSIBILITY OF

STARTLING A HORSE OR

DISTRACTING A STUDENT.

THEY ARE NOT TO BE

USED AT ANY TIME

DURING A LESSON.


Volunteer Training and Guidelines

Each volunteer will attend a mandatory orientation that covers the following:

• Facility layout—to include restroom location, parking, tack room, feed room, and first

aid kits (human and equine)

• Emergency procedures

• Training video

• Introduction of staff, both human and equine

• Location of emergency phone and contact information

Throughout the year, we offer advanced training for all volunteer positions. These include our

quarterly “Volunteer Rewards,” where we will practice emergency dismount procedures,

leading horses properly, tying a quick release knot, and much more.

What to Wear:

• Be aware you will be doing a lot of walking on varying surfaces, including but not limited

to, loose sand, clay, and long grass. If/when a horse steps on your foot, it DOES hurt.

Comfortable, supportive, yet sturdy shoes are very important. No open toe or open heal

shoes are allowed at the barn. Boots are recommended.

• We all know that is gets VERY hot here in

Florida. Loose, light colored clothing is

optimal during the summer. While we

encourage you to wear your Volunteer

shirt, we do not require it. Please be sure

you still appear neat and clean.

• Modest shorts and t-shirts are acceptable

in the summer and we suggest layers in

the winter.

• A hat, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, and sunscreen are all highly recommended.

Don’t forget a rain jacket for those summer afternoon storms!

• Long hair should be tied back and please avoid wearing dangling earrings, necklaces,

and bracelets that could be a distraction to a student. We ask that you also not wear

heavy perfumes, colognes, or hairsprays.


• If going on a Pony Express visit, please realize that you are a representative of our

organization to the community and dress appropriately. No shorts allowed and you

must wear a neat, modest shirt.

What NOT to Wear:

• Excessively tight or baggy clothing

• Bare midriff or other revealing clothing

• Open toe shoes, sandals, or clogs

• Clothing with inappropriate slogans, words, decals, etc.

Many volunteers at McCormick are teenagers or young adults that are experiencing

responsibility for their first time. To help set them up for success, here are some things we

value in our volunteers and that will help in all aspects of one’s life.

• Punctuality—The staff and students are McCormick are counting on our volunteers to

be there. If volunteers do not show up, our students can’t ride. Please be on time and

be sure to sign in and out.

• Attitude—Please avoid gossip. We recommend that you do not repeat any sensitive

information unless the person you tell can help the situation. If you have a concern or

need to have something explained in more detail, SPEAK UP. Ask questions, set up a

meeting with the Volunteer Manager or any other staff member you feel comfortable

talking to. Please take initiative and pride in your work. Look for jobs that need to be

done around the barn and be a great

example for others.

• Performance—We understand that a lot

of our volunteers have a significant

amount of horse experience, but please

leave the riding instruction to the

instructor. Avoid chatting with the

students during a lesson because it can

be very distracting. Follow all rules and

policies at all times.

Inclement Weather

• There might be times we must cancel lessons due to bad weather. If unsure, please call

the Volunteer Manager.

• In the case of an impending hurricane, volunteers may be asked to help secure the barn

and/or relocate the horses in the days or hours leading up to the storm’s arrival.


Logging Your Hours

• It is very important to us that we track all volunteer hours.

• Signing in and out is vital to our fundraising efforts and recognizing volunteers for all

their hard work!

Confidentiality

• While some students may be open about their disability, medical history, or personal

challenges, remember you signed a Confidentiality Agreement when you started your

service with McCormick.

• During a class or therapy session, you might be told information about a student to

safely and effectively assist them. This information is confidential and should never be

repeated.

• Disabilities and medical information should never be discussed between volunteers.

• If you hear something that makes you feel uncomfortable, please talk with a McCormick

staff member right away.

General Procedures

• All doors/gates must be closed at all times, with the exception of the tack room,

bathroom, and office. This includes arena gates and stall doors.

• Turn off lights and/or fans when not in use.

• Volunteers may clean out horses’ front hooves, but not the rear.

• Place all items back in their correctly labeled spots. For example, brushes in the small

tack boxes in the cross-tie area.

• Only students are to give horses treats and this must be done with the spoons provided.

Volunteers are permitted to leave food items in a horse’s bucket. No food should ever

be given from the hand.

• Do not play with or around the horses’ mouths.


• No more than two volunteers should be in a stall with a horse at any time.

• A horse must never be lead without a lead rope and halter or bridle and reins.

• Only staff members are to put on or remove bridles.

• Volunteers are not permitted to drive any company vehicle, including the Polaris ATV.

• Any illness, injury, or out-of-the-norm occurrence must be reported immediately to a

staff member and an incident report must be filled out.

Stall Cleaning

• Do not clean a stall while a horse is still in it. Please remove the animal and place them

in an empty stall or the cross ties.

• Remove all feces and urine (taking care to not remove excess, clean shavings).

• Check the water bucket to make sure it is clean and full.

• Always dump muck buckets into manure station.

• Place all equipment back in designated locations when completed.

Volunteers Dismissal

If any volunteer should infringe on any of McCormick rules or if their performance is

unsatisfactory, disciplinary actions will be taken to correct any further occurrence.

1. Verbal warning 2. Written warning 3. Suspension 4. Termination

Gross Misconduct

Gross misconduct is a volunteer’s behavior that warrants immediate termination without

following the steps mentioned above. Some examples of this behavior include:

• Violent outbursts

• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of students, staff, or other volunteers

• Extreme insubordination

Guests Dismissal

Guests who do not abide by McCormick’s rules will be asked to comply. Refusal will result in

the guest being asked to leave.


Gross Misconduct

Gross misconduct, as mentioned above, will result in guests being asked to leave immediately.

Participant Discharge Policy

There are few reasons why we would discharge a participant. Those that apply include:

• Weight gain that results in a student exceeding 180 lbs. for unbalanced riders and 200 lbs. for balanced riders.

• Non-payment of fees. This is at the discretion of the accounting & billing manager, as each situation is unique.

• Habitual lack of attendance. This is at the discretion of the Heavenly Hooves program manager or Horses & Heroes program manager, as each situation is unique.

• Participants for whom equine-assisted therapy becomes a danger. Such examples may include a participant who undergoes surgery and the follow-up physician statement indicates that the participant should no longer participate in equine-assisted therapy.

• Participants who present a danger for staff, volunteers, other participants, or therapy horses. Such examples may include participants who regularly act aggressively, hitting, scratching, biting, or otherwise abusing staff, volunteers, other participants, or horses. Occurrence reports will be filed on each instance.

The discharge process may differ for each situation. Whenever possible, participants will be

given several chances to change behavior, attend classes, or whatever is required. Clear

communication between MRI staff and the participant and/or parent/guardian will be ensured.

Expected results and/or a timeline will be set whenever possible.

Should at participant’s behavior or threat of danger merit immediate dismissal, the dismissal

will be handled with discretion.


Getting to Know the Clients

At McCormick, we are here to provide therapy to improve our participants’ quality of life. We

like to focus on their abilities, not disabilities. Be yourself when you meet a student for the first

time. Introduce yourself, shake hands, and make normal conversation. Don’t be afraid to laugh

or cry with the rider.

Be patient. Let the student set the pace for walking or

talking. Don’t offer pity. Most people with disabilities want

the chance to prove themselves. When speaking with

someone in a wheelchair, get down on their level.

The most important thing to know when interacting with

people with disabilities is that they are people. And just like

all people, they are very different, including being different

in how they are with disability issues. Remember that

people with disabilities have different preferences. Just

because one person with a disability prefers something one

way doesn't mean that another person with the same disability also prefers it that way. Before

you help someone, ask if he or she would like help. In some cases, a person with a disability

might seem to be struggling, yet they are fine and would prefer to complete the task on their

own. Follow the person's cues and ask staff if you are not sure what to do. Don't be offended if

someone declines your offer of assistance.

Speak normally. Some people tend to talk louder and slower to people with disabilities, but

please don't. Don't assume that because a person has one disability that he also has a cognitive

disability or is hard of hearing. For example, a person with cerebral palsy might use a

wheelchair, have uncontrolled upper body

movements, have difficulty speaking, and yet

have very good hearing, cognitive abilities, and

intelligence.

Use "people-first" language when referring to

people with disabilities. People-first language

means put the person first and the disability


second. For example, say "a man who is blind" rather than "a blind man," and "a woman who

uses a wheelchair" instead of "a wheelchair-bound woman."

Avoid potentially offensive terms or euphemisms. Commonly accepted terminology includes

"people with disabilities" and "a person with visual/hearing/physical/speech/cognitive

impairment." Many people find certain language offensive such as the following: restricted to a

wheelchair, victim of, suffers from, retarded, deformed, crippled, and physically challenged.

We encourage you to spend as much time as you want

at the barn, but, please, do not get burnt out!

The staff understands that you have a life outside the

barn.

A particularly gifted volunteer might be asked to help

out a lot, and we don’t want anyone to feel

overwhelmed.


Safety Protocols and Procedures

You might be asked to perform an emergency dismount in the case of a student issue, severe

weather, or other circumstance.

Emergency Dismount Procedure

1. Therapist or horse handler signals the need for emergency dismount

2. Handler immediately stops horse and stays close to the horse’s head to calm the horse

3. If stirrups are being used, both side walkers immediately free rider’s feet

4. Side walker/therapist on the horse’s left side grasps the rider firmly around the waist

and pulls the rider off and away from the horse and eases rider to ground, while the side

walker or therapist on the right side of the horses assists in moving the rider’s leg over

the horse’s mane

5. Horse handler turns horse’s head toward the side to which the rider is dismounting so

that the hindquarters automatically swing away from the rider

Consideration:

Although dismounts are traditionally made to the left, the type and nature of the emergency

may dictate otherwise.

Loose Horse Protocol

• Remember human safety comes first!

• If the loose horse is located within the barn fencing and is approachable, walk calmly

towards the animal with a lead rope and bucket with a small amount of grain.

• If possible, clip the lead rope onto the horse’s halter and secure him or her in a stall.

• If the horse is excited or stressed or you are unable to catch the animal, please find or

call a staff member for assistance. Do NOT run/chase after the horse!

• If the horse is located outside the fences of our facility, please contact a staff member

immediately.

Safety is our number one priority, for both humans and animals. Please read the protocols

below carefully and do not hesitate to ask questions!


Loss of Power

In the unlikely circumstance of the barn or arena being without lights, please follow these

procedures:

• Stay where you are and remain calm

• If you are in the arena during a lesson, follow the instructor’s directions

• Staff will distribute flashlights or source of light and car headlights may be used

Lightning Policy

In the case of lightning in the area, McCormick staff will implement the “30–30 Rule.” This

means we will count the seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder. If this time is

30 seconds or less, lightning is a potential threat. In this case, all participants, volunteers,

visitors, and staff will seek shelter in a safe location immediately within the barn.

During a 30-30 rule, riders should be dismounted, and horses should be moved to the cross ties

or put into their stalls.

After hearing the last thunder, staff will wait 30 minutes before resuming classes. It’s possible

too, that based on timing, the class may be cancelled.

Fire Protocol

A fire at any location has great potential for danger, but especially in a barn. To assure staff,

volunteers, clients, and animals are safe in the event of a fire, please follow this procedure:

1. Upon ANY indication of a fire in progress, call 911 and notify a staff member.

2. If you see a fire in the beginning stage (first flames, or initial spark) and you feel capable

of extinguishing the fire, retrieve the nearest fire extinguisher and proceed to put it out.

The fire department should be notified that the initial fire has been handled, but

requested to come inspect the area to ensure it has been completely extinguished.

3. There are four fire extinguishers in the barn, two on each side of the barn isle ways,

outside the community room and tack room. And two in the covered arena, at each end

of the south side of the arena. Fire extinguishers are inspected monthly and recharged

when necessary. All staff have been instructed in the use of fire extinguishers.


4. ALL individuals should proceed in an orderly fashion to the outdoor arena via the

nearest exit without going through the barn, if possible.

Instructors are responsible for indicating the direction of the nearest exit and seeing

that all students and volunteers immediately exit and quickly proceed to the outdoor

arena.

• If there is a class in progress in the outdoor arena, the clients will be dismounted and

horses left in the arena.

• Each instructor shall perform a headcount of students and volunteers upon arriving

at the outdoor arena. Because of this, no one will be allowed to leave the property

during a fire evacuation unless there is a life-threatening need.

• A senior staff member shall take charge of the meeting area. Their responsibilities

are:

a. Determine from instructors and others any persons unaccounted for.

b. Establish that the fire department has been contacted. If not, a designated

person will be sent to the nearest safe phone.

c. Arrange for first aid or emergency medical needs of any person(s).

d. Know the whereabouts of any staff members that have returned to the building

or are on errands.

5. No one shall reenter the building unless given

permission by the senior staff member. The only reason

to reenter the building is to assist clients in evacuating

the building. Persons who reenter to assist in evacuation

should do so in pairs and should NOT enter an area

where smoke impedes vision. At staff discretion, horses

that can be removed while exiting, without endangering

the evacuation of persons, and may be taken to pasture

or outdoor arena and turned loose.

6. Should circumstances make any of these procedures

impractical (e.g., wind conditions, location of fire) the

senior staff member shall make necessary modifications.

Weapons

The McCormick Research Institute is a weapon-free work environment. We can appreciate that

some individuals may possess a concealed-weapon permit, but all weapons should be kept in a

locked vehicle or left at home. No weapons may be brought on premises, or carried on a

person, or stowed in a purse or other bag.


What to Do in the Event of a Human Injury or Emergency

1. Stay Calm

o The worst thing you can do in any emergency medical situation is panic. For the sake

of the victim and other volunteers, try to remain calm, cool, and collected. You will

be more effective and efficient this way.

2. Assess the Situation

o Quickly assess the scope of the injuries and collect information. If an injured person

is conscious, ask them to tell you if anything hurts and observe where on their body

they may be physically injured. Do not move an injured person, especially if they are

reporting pain, unless there is imminent danger.

3. Call 911

o If a person is badly injured, call 911. If there is any doubt as to whether emergency

services are needed, it is better to be safe than sorry. Stay calm and provide your

address, location in the building, phone number, name, and any information you

have gathered about the injuries.

4. Administer first aid and CPR

o If required, CPR or first aid should be performed by a person who is trained to do so.

If there is no skilled person, wait for emergency professionals. Do not administer

medical attention or medications. Be careful to not come in contact with blood,

vomit, or other bodily fluids.

What to Do in the Event of a Tornado

• Remain calm

• Follow instructor’s directions

• Be prepared to dismount students and evacuate the

arena

• Make your way to a solid building, such as the barn;

you may be required to assist students or other

personnel to safety

• Please remember human safety is our number one

concern and depending on the severity of the

weather, horses may or may not be evacuated

Risk Management Planning

At the back of this handbook is our Risk Management Planning guide. Please take time to

become familiar with this guide.


Understanding Our Equine Partner

Therapeutic horses are still horses and thus have natural instincts. They have undergone

specialized training to be able to handle the added stress of potentially difficult riders,

accepting side walkers, or standing still for long periods of time.

Horses, by nature, are prey animals. This means they have a strong “fight or flight” instinct.

Having a fight or flight response means that if an animal is unsure about something, they will

either try to flee (flight) or protect themselves via kicking, biting, etc. (fighting).

Please take care to not spend time around a horse’s head. The best way to approach a horse is

from the side, near their neck. All animals have the potential to bite, including our horses.

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Glossary of Equine Terminology

Aids: Signals that the rider uses to control the speed and direction of the horse.

Canter: Natural gait possessed by all horses, faster than most horses' trot, but slower than the

gallop.

Figure Eight: A schooling figure that consists of two connecting circles.

Gelding: Castrated, adult, male horse.

Hands: A height of measurement for horses. A hand is four inches. To find a horse’s height, you

would measure from the ground to their withers.

Half Circle Reverse: During a lesson, a movement used to change direction.

Horse: The term used to describe an equine that is 14.2 hands or taller.

Inside Leg/Side: The leg on the inside of the ring, usually the side that the instructor is on.

Mare: Adult, female horse.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trot_(horse_gait)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horse_gait#Gallop

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Near Side: The left side of the horse (when mounted). A horse is always mounted from this

side.

Off Side: The right side of the horse.

Outside Leg: The rider’s leg on the outside of the ring.

Pony: The term used to describe a full-grown equine that is shorter than 14.2 hands.

Posting: The “rising trot;” the rising and descending of the rider with the rhythm of the trot.

Sitting Trot: The rider sits deep in the saddle and maintains contact with the saddle while

trotting.

Serpentine: A series of circles and straight lines crossing from one side of the ring to the other;

a schooling exercise.

Stallion: Adult male horse that has not been castrated.

Trot: The pace at which a horse moves that is faster than a walk but slower than a canter;

diagonal pairs of legs move forward together.

Two Point: The two-point or half seat is achieved by bending forward at the hips, taking most of

the weight in your ankles and heels and your back straight with your seat just off the saddle.

http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=pzrPcWvjI1wh9M&tbnid=eKbLgmoMeXahXM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.equisearch.com/horses_riding_training/training/basic_schooling/zigzag_072104/&ei=wfWUUpnEHM-dkAf34IGQBQ&psig=AFQjCNHBMdkdAF00WWajU9vIqe2qxVHN6g&ust=1385580318520142


Equine Anatomy

http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=FV4jOkuKDQtx5M&tbnid=FEQd3XQX1T-psM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.modeldads.co.uk/Life-at-the-Front/wordpress/tag/saga/&ei=55eTUsTPCKbR2QWRuYDYCw&bvm=bv.56988011,d.cGU&psig=AFQjCNFq0e6bQBj3U2WNlyNFIQF6qLexjg&ust=1385490738264378

http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=o28UHLZqjNWMzM&tbnid=sukUiMlFXokwrM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http://www.thenaturalhoof.co.uk/4.html&ei=1pqTUsGeI6OY2QWyloC4Dg&bvm=bv.56988011,d.cGU&psig=AFQjCNEo2l4bOvHzWFL98t2b-4KP8ft5aQ&ust=1385491008524616


Risk Management Planning

The following relates to potential risks inherent to our facility, its location, and the work we do.

1. Natural Hazards Specific to the Site

There are no known natural hazards on site.

Plan:

N/A

2. Manmade Hazards Specific to the Site

There are a few manmade hazards specific to McCormick Research Institute.

• McCormick Road has traffic that could pose a danger to a loose horse.

• The ramp in the covered arena could be a fall hazard.

• The culvert that goes under the walkway to the covered arena is an area where

horses could step off and hurt themselves.

Plan:

• To ensure that a horse does not enter traffic, all staff and volunteers are

instructed to double check the latch/chain for each stall door or gate when

putting a horse away. And staff should ensure that the front gate is closed each

evening at the close of the business day.

• To keep participants off the ramp, we hang a chain and sign across the entry

ramp when not in use.

• We instruct volunteers to keep horses on the walkway and watch their footsteps

when crossing the culvert on the walkway.

3. Operation of Facilities and/or Equipment

The one piece of equipment on site that potentially presents a danger is the mechanical

lift.


Plan:

To ensure that only qualified personnel operate the lift and that only qualified horses

are used with the lift, a training program has been put in place for both personnel and

horses.

4. Disasters Such as Fire, Flood, Tornado, Hurricane, Earthquake, Etc.

• Hurricane

Because of our location in Florida, we occasionally find our facility to be in the path

of a hurricane.

Plan:

If a hurricane is predicted to pass through our area, all horses will be locked in their

stalls, as the barn is steel reinforced and considered to be the safest location. Any

horses that do not have a stall will be turned loose in one of the pastures.

Identification tags will be braided into each horse’s mane, so that we can be alerted

should they escape or become injured.

Each horse will be left with extra water and hay as a precaution for the event access

to the facility is delayed.

As soon as possible and safety allows, a staff member will come to the facility to

check on horses, clean stalls, and feed/water them.

• Fire

Fire is always a possible threat. But should a fire ever occur, it does not have to

result in harm.

Plan:

In preparation for responding to a fire, all volunteers and staff undergo emergency

dismount procedures and emergency evacuation procedure training, and are

instructed on the location of all fire extinguishers.

• Lightning

We live in the lightning capitol of the world. So, lightning is something we must deal

with on a regular basis.


Plan:

The McCormick Lightning Policy follows the “30–30 Rule,” which states that when

you see lightning, count the time until you hear thunder. If the time is 30 seconds or

less, go immediately to a safer place. Wait 30 minutes or more after hearing the last

thunder before leaving the safer location. If you can’t see the lightning, just hearing

the thunder means lightning is likely within striking range, go to a safer place.

The “30–30 Rule” is best suited for existing thunderstorms moving into the area.

However, it cannot protect against the first lightning strike. Be alert to changes in

sky conditions and thunderstorm development directly overhead. Larger outdoor

activities have longer evacuation times and require prompt reaction in response to

the threat.

Use the “30-30 RULE” to determine the threat of lightning in your area.

30 Seconds:

Count the seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder. If this time is 30

seconds or less, lightning is a potential threat. Seek shelter in a safer location

immediately.

30 Minutes:

After hearing the last thunder, wait 30 minutes before leaving shelter. Half of all

lightning deaths occur after the storm passes. Stay in a safe area until you are sure

the threat has passed.

During a 30-30 Rule

During a 30-30 rule, riders should be dismounted, horses should be moved to the

cross-ties or put into their stalls.

5. Hazards Specific to the Use of Equines

There are, of course, specific hazards related to being around and working with equines.

We also have a domesticated parrot that lives at our barn, who will bite fingers offered.


Plan:

Because there are hazards specific to the use of equines, each participant, volunteer,

and employee must sign a waiver and undergo training on best practices. Precaution is

used in handling the horses at all times.

Should an accident occur in which an equine is injured, the Horse Care Manager or a

member of the McCormick staff should be alerted.

Should an individual be injured, the injury should be tended to immediately. Staff

and/or the parent/legal guardian should use their best judgement to determine if the

injury needs medical attention.

The same attention should be given to any injuries incurred by the parrot.

6. Conduct of Personnel, Participants, and Guests

Appropriate conduct is expected from all personnel, participants, and guests.

Plan:

If any guests are conducting themselves inappropriately, they may be asked to leave the

premises. If any volunteer or personnel should infringe on any of McCormick rules or if

their performance is unsatisfactory, disciplinary actions will be taken to correct any

further occurrence.

• Verbal warning

• Written warning

• Suspension

• Termination

• Gross Misconduct

Gross misconduct is a volunteer’s behavior that warrants immediate termination

without following the steps mentioned above. Some examples of this behavior include:

• Violent outbursts

• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of students, staff, or other volunteers

• Committing a crime while at McCormick

• Extreme insubordination

Occurrence Reports

All occurrences that result in the injury of a human or equine should be well-documented on an

Occurrence Report Form.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the qualifications to be a volunteer?

• At least 14 years old

• Understand English

• Able to walk or stand for longer periods of time if wanting to assist with lessons

• Ability to accept supervision and guidance

2. When do volunteers get to ride?

We offer “Volunteer Reward Events” multiple times a year. These sessions act as a chance

for our volunteers to get in the saddle, as well as a hands-on, continuing education

experience.

3. I signed up to help with a lesson, but now I can’t make it. What do I do?

If you need to cancel more than 24 hours before the lesson, simply remove your name from

the class on McVIC. If the lesson is less than 24 hours away, please contact the volunteer

manager directly by phone or email.

4. I left my sweater, hat, keys, etc., at the barn. Where can I find them?

Any items found to be left behind will be placed in the “Lost and Found” bin located in the

tack room.

5. What do I wear to the barn?

Depending on the climate, please wear neat, yet comfortable clothes. If you have obtained

a volunteer t-shirt, please wear that. Closed-toe shoes with a heal are mandatory and we

suggest a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.


6. I am volunteering to get credit for school. What do I do?

If your school has a form or letter that needs to be signed, please bring it with you to the

barn. Our volunteer manager will be more than happy to sign it for you. If your school

requires documentation, but does not provide a form, the volunteer manager will be more

than happy to write a letter to your school confirming your volunteer work. However, it is

your responsibility to request any needed documentation and to do so in a timely manner.

7. Where do the horses come from?

Very rarely are the horses purchased for McCormick; instead, most are donated from a

variety of sources. It takes a very special equine to be a therapy horse, so not all horses

make the cut. Any time a horse is donated to us, it goes through a trial period, usually

lasting about 90 days. During this time, the horse is evaluated on multiple levels for things

such as temperament, manners, ability to accept different and/or challenging riders, and

coping with side walkers.

8. What do we do if we show up to the barn and we aren’t scheduled in a lesson?

Just because you aren’t scheduled in a lesson doesn’t mean we don’t need you! There is

always something that needs to be done around the barn—cleaning stalls, bathing horses,

scrubbing buckets. There is a list of chores located in the tack room.

9. Where can I put my phone, keys, purse, etc.?

The best place for a phone and purse would be locked safely in your car. If your keys don’t

fit in your pocket, feel free to put them in the tack room locker; but please note, we cannot

guarantee the safety of items you leave in the barn.

10. How do I sign up to help with lessons?

Volunteers may sign up for volunteer hours on the McCormick Volunteer Information

Center (McVIC) accessed through our website: mccormick.us, or through the McVIC kiosk

located in the tack room.

Your McVIC account will be created by the volunteer manager and you will receive an email

containing your unique login PIN for the kiosk and login name and temporary password for

access through the website.

All available volunteer hours will be posted for each day. You may sign-up for the hours you

wish to volunteer through these calendars.

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