Tack rooms
Tack rooms are occasional targets for criminals in rural communities and saddles, bridles and other equipment are attractive to thieves and can be expensive to replace if stolen.
- The construction of tack rooms is an important aspect in keeping the contents secure – brick or concrete block is ideal and wood can be reinforced internally with steel plate or mesh.
- Wooden doors should be reinforced with steel where appropriate and door frames strong and secured to the fabric of the building. Use good quality mortice locks to doors where possible, or alternatively use heavy-duty close shackle padlocks and heavy duty pad bars.
- Windows, no matter how small, can provide entry for would-be thieves and should be fitted with grilles, bars or removed completely.
- Saddles and bridles should be secured to their racks when not in use and wheelbarrows, trolleys and other moveable items should be kept separate to tack or secured as they could be used to make removal of property easier.
- Security-marking property can be a deterrent to thieves and makes stolen items easier to return to their rightful owners if they are recovered.
- Tack, rugs, saddles and other equipment should be marked with the owner's postcode. It may also be helpful to keep a list of all your equipment noting down any identifiable marks or serial numbers.