Barn Safety Tips: Plan Ahead to Improve Your Chances of a Positive Outcome

If you have gutters on your barn remember to clean them or have screens installed so that leaves and debris cannot gather in them.
Fences should be sturdy and made of appropriate materials for holding horses. Avoid barb wire which can cause serious injuries and even death. If using wooden posts for your fences choose the fourinch size and pound well into the ground. If you use metal Tposts install plastic caps for your horses safety. Keep fences in good repair replacing or repairing loose or broken fencing immediately. Gates should close securely so horses cannot escape.
Its a good idea to make regular safety checks of the barn and property for potential hazards such as loose or protruding nails broken latches or debris in the yard. Sweep any cobwebs from the rafters when you notice them as these can explode in flame during a fire.
Emergency!
It is always wise to be prepared for emergencies both large and small. Have a plan in place so that if an emergency does arise you can act quickly and calmly.
All barns should have well stocked first aid kits for both humans and horses in an easily accessible place. Remember to restock any items as they are used or expire.
Ideally barn owners managers instructors and trainers should have a good knowledge of first aid and CPR in case of a rider fall or accident. If an injury occurs an ambulance should be called if the person
Is not breathing
Does not have a pulse
Is bleeding profusely
Has impaired consciousness
Has injured the back neck or head
Has visible major trauma
Fire extinguishers should be placed at all entrances where they are easily accessible in case of fire but away from any heat sources and where they are not a tripping hazard. Fire extinguishers should also be located on each level of the barn for example on the main floor and in the loft. The barn owner should make sure that all boarders know how to operate the fire extinguisher and what to do in case of emergency. Remember to have your extinguishers serviced regularly so you can be sure they will work in an emergency.
Smoke detectors are also a good idea and should be wired to set off an outside alarm and an alarm in the residence so they can still be heard if no one is in the barn.
In an emergency horses are likely to panic and may refuse to leave their