The intent of this article is to provide information to horse owners regarding safety around their property or while engaged in their sport or business.

Starting with a tour of the facility, a sign should be clearly posted at the latched entrance gate advising visitors and vendors of some simple rules. "All visitors or Vendors Please check in with the manager or owner before proceeding." "No smoking," even if you smoke it would be advisable not to allow others to do so on your property. A carelessly discarded cigarette butt landing in flammable material could be a serious disaster. "No horses moved without notifying the manager or property owner." "Do not enter paddocks, runs or corrals without permission from the manager or property owner." "Please park in designated areas." Designate areas for vehicle parking, loading and unloading. Unloading or loading animals in an area where other vehicles are driving or children playing could be dangerous for you the horse and others. Attempting to move a vehicle parked in front of a hydrant or exit area during an emergency could be the difference between rescue and tragedy. These simple rules can prevent theft or disaster and begin your guests visit with them knowing that you care how they act and that you care for the animals at your facility.

Barn construction can be of any of the readily available materials in your area, but wether it is of stone or wood, remember to keep a few design plans in mind. The structure should be sturdy. Large animals lean and rub themselves on corners and uprights, same principles apply to fencing. A thousand pound horse exerts tremendous pressure on these load bearing areas. Even if the structure does not collapse, many horses have been seriously injured or killed by impaling themselves on broken uprights or posts. Repair any structure or post weakened by their activities. Run your electrical lines in conduit and secure the conduit to the structure. Horses are curious and love to pull or bite things to play while stalled. Utilize encased outdoor lighting devices firmly secured. Interior finished walkways should be made of non skid material or finish. Gates and interior walls should be securely fastened to the structure or embedded in the ground. Look for gaps that feet and legs could be entrapped while rolling or pawing. All gates and doors should latch securely, but never lock a paddock or barn access doors, in most communities this is even regarded as an illegal activity. Keep halters and leads near each horse.

Access routes should be provided at regular intervals, In longer barns an exit at each end is just not sufficient, especially in a fire. Fire extinguishers should be provided at regular intervals, both inside and out. Make sure they are fully charged and inspected for charge regularly. If you ever discharge one even though it is still pressurized, have it fully recharged. Check for applicable use, fire extinguishers are designed for specific fires. In a rural area have a farm panel or similar power box installed. A farm panel allows the all electricity to be shut down, but your well pump to continue to operate. Store all flammable materials in a separate storage facility. Keep a clear non-burn area around the barn and other structures. Some items are flammable even though you might not recognize them. Grains must be vented to prevent explosion. Improperly baled hay, wet, could ignite. Some medications and liniments are highly flammable. Read the label.