Feed, Hay, and Tack Storage Safety
Poor storage practices can create serious risks in a barn. Hay, feed, tools, and supplies may seem harmless, but if they are stored incorrectly, they can cause fires, injuries, or health problems for horses.
Good organization is not just about neatness, it is about safety.
Hay should be stored:
- Dry
- Well-ventilated
- Away from electrical panels
- Away from heaters or heat sources
Hay Safety
Hay is one of the biggest fire risks in a barn if it is not handled properly.
Do not store wet hay.
Wet hay can overheat inside the bale. This heat buildup can lead to spontaneous combustion and start a fire.
Why this matters
- Prevents illness
- Avoids feeding mistakes
- Keeps the barn clean and safe
Feed Room Safety
The feed room should be carefully organized and feed stored in sealed containers.
Feed storage should be:
- Waterproof
- Rodent-proof
- Horse-proof
- Clearly labeled
Rodents can spread disease and contaminate feed. Horses that get into feed can overeat, which can cause colic or laminitis.
Feed charts help prevent mistakes.
If someone else needs to feed, the chart shows the correct amounts for each horse.
Spilled grain should be swept up immediately.
Loose grain attracts rodents and creates a slipping hazard.
Tack Room Organization
A well-organized tack room prevents trips and injuries.
Tack rooms need racks and designated storage areas.
Saddles, bridles, and equipment should never be left on the floor.
Store equipment out of reach of horses.
Loose equipment can injure a curious horse.
Hang rakes and pitchforks with tines toward the wall.
If someone steps on exposed tines, the handle can swing upward and cause injury.
Why this matters
- Prevents tripping hazards
- Protects valuable equipment
- Reduces the chance of injury
Chemical and Fire Hazards
Some barn supplies are dangerous and must be stored correctly.
Gasoline and chemicals should be stored in a separate building.
This reduces the risk of fire and accidental poisoning.
Remove cobwebs regularly.
Cobwebs collect dust and can burn quickly if exposed to flame.
Extension cords should only be used temporarily.
They should be removed after use because they can overheat and create a fire hazard.
Why this matters
- Reduces fire risk
- Protects horses from toxic substances
- Prevents preventable accidents
Why this matters
- Emergencies require quick action
- Organization saves time
- A clean barn is a safer barn
Emergency Preparedness
Prepared barns are safer barns.
Have lead ropes available at barn entrances.
In an emergency, horses may need to be moved quickly.
Maintain a fire plan and practice it.
Everyone should know:
• Where exits are
• Where extinguishers are located
• Who to alert in an emergency
Keep garbage containers accessible.
Trash should go into proper containers, not onto the ground.
Remove unnecessary trash or debris.
Clutter increases fire risk and causes injuries.