6 Critical Winter Barn Safety Tips for Safer Storm Prep

When winter storms roll through New England, horse owners know the drill: snow, ice, high winds, and the all-too-common power outage. Whether it lasts a few hours or several days, losing electricity can quickly turn into a serious situation in a barn setting. Without power, heated waterers stop working, lighting disappears, and temperature control becomes a challenge.

That’s why smart preparation is crucial for winter barn safety essential. Creating a plan and having the right tools on hand will help you manage even the harshest weather confidently. From heated buckets for horses to battery powered lanterns and emergency supplies, these practical barn safety tips will help you stay ready when the next storm hits.

1. Make Water a Top Priority

When temperatures drop below freezing, keeping fresh, unfrozen water available for your horse is one of the biggest challenges but necessary for winter barn safety. Horses need to drink 8-12 gallons per day, even in winter, to maintain healthy digestion and prevent colic. During power outages, access to water can become complicated, which is why heated buckets for horses are a game changer.

Heated buckets plug into standard outlets and use minimal electricity to keep water just above freezing. They’re designed with safety in mind, featuring thermostatic controls that only activate when needed. Investing in quality heated buckets ensures your horses stay hydrated without you needing to break ice several times a day.

If you lose power and can’t rely on electricity:

• Keep extra buckets indoors before the storm so you can store and rotate warm water manually.
• Use insulated bucket covers or wrap buckets in old blankets to slow freezing.
• Add a floating object, like a small rubber ball, to keep the surface from icing over completely.
• Pre-fill large containers or barrels with clean water before the storm. These back ups will get you through short-term outages.

Having multiple heated buckets for horses ready to go – and knowing how to manage when the power is out – is one of the smartest winter barn safety investments you can make.

2. Light Up Your Barn Safely

A power outage means instant darkness in the barn, and that’s more than inconvenient, it can be dangerous. Slippery floors, startled horses, and poor visibility make routine chores difficult. Battery-powered or rechargeable LED lanterns are the safest lighting solution for barns during outages and should be on hand for winter barn safety.

Keep several lanterns and flashlights on hand and store them where you can easily find them in the dark. Rechargeable models that double as power banks are ideal since they can also charge your phone or small devices in an emergency.

Avoid using open flame candles or propane lanterns inside the barn, these pose serious fire risks, especially near hay, bedding, or wooden walls. Stick with flameless durable lighting options that provide hours of safe illumination.

3. Maintain Airflow and Ventilation

It’s tempting to shut every window and door tight when the temperature plummets, but proper airflow is still essential. Without electricity, fans and vents stop working, which can cause moisture buildup, condensation, and poor air quality.

During a storm, keep at least one small vent or window slightly cracked on the leeward side of the barn to allow fresh air circulation without letting in drafts. Stale air can contribute to respiratory irritation, mold, and ammonia build up from urine – especially when horses are stalled for long periods.

Clean stalls frequently during power outages, and sprinkle stall absorbents or bedding conditioners to help manage odor and moisture until fans can run again.

4. Stock Up on Winter Barn Safety Backup Supplies

Preparation is key to getting through a storm comfortably. Before the coldest months arrive, create an emergency supply station in your barn. Include essentials like:

• Extra heated buckets for horses (in case one fails mid-season)
• A portable generator or power station for critical tools and water heaters
• Battery powered lanterns and flashlights with spare batteries
• Portable water containers or clean barrels for backup storage
• A first aid kit for both horses and humans
• Non-perishable snacks and bottled water for you and your team
• Warm blankets and spare turnout gear for horses in case of prolonged cold
• Manual tools like a pitchfork, broom, and shovel in case electric ones can’t be used

Keep everything stored in waterproof bins or cabinets so it’s protected and easy to find when the power goes out unexpectedly. To see The Trainer’s Loft current selection of stable supplies, click here!

5. Plan for Communication and Safety

Keep your phone charged and have a backup power bank ready. Notify your barn staff, boarders, or anyone who helps care for your horses where the winter barn safety emergency supplies are located.

If your barn is in a rural area, consider having a weather radio on hand that doesn’t rely on cell service. It’s also a good idea to write down key contact numbers such as your veterinarian, farrier, and nearby neighbors, in the event your phone battery dies.

Finally, review your evacuation or shelter-in-place plan at the start of each winter when going over your winter barn safety plan. If the weather becomes too severe or structure damage occurs, having a clear plan keeps everyone calm and ensures the safety of you and your horses.

6. After the Storm

Once the power returns, take time to check your equipment. Empty, clean, and sanitize heated buckets before reusing them. Inspect cords and plugs for any moisture or damage and replace anything that shows signs of wear. Restock spent supplies immediately so you are ready for the next storm – because in New England, it’s never too long before another one arrives and resetting your winter barn safety supplies is a smart move.

Stay Winter Ready

Power outages during winter storms are stressful, but with the right planning, they don’t have to put your horses at risk. Prioritize hydration with heated buckets for horses, light your barn safely with battery-powered lanterns, and keep backup supplies close at hand. These simple winter barn safety preparations can make a world of difference when the weather takes a turn for the worse.

From heated buckets for horses and waterproof blankets to winter barn safety supplies, The Trainer’s Loft has what you need to prepare for New England’s toughest storms. Visit our shop in Tilton, NH or shop online for products that help you and your horses weather the season safely.