Before any kind of trailer travel, it’s important to take steps to ensure the safety of yourself and your horses. Truck and trailer equipment must be in good working order, and the process of checking the equipment can be daunting without a clear, concise checklist.
This handy reference for safe trailer travel includes an equipment checklist to perform before and after horses are loaded, plus tips for driving while pulling a trailer. Ensuring safe truck and trailer equipment before you leave can help minimize or even eliminate problems during your trip.
Your Pre-Drive Safety Checklist
Before any kind of trailer travel, do a once-over in these areas, checking that:
- All lights are working.
- Brakes are working, and brake maintenance is up-to-date.
- Trailer hitch is secure, and safety chains are on.
- Dirt and debris are swept out.
- Trailer mats are clean and dry.
- Dividers are securely fastened.
- Loose, rattling parts have been tightened or secured.
- Sharp edges or loose wires inside trailer are fixed.
- Trailer is loaded properly and within weight limits.
- Lug nuts on all wheels are tight.
- Tire pressure is within recommended ranges when tires are cold.
Be sure you’ve packed:
- First aid kits for horses and humans.
- An emergency kit with flares or cones, a working jack, and extra halters and lead ropes.
- A fire extinguisher that is working and easily accessible.
- A lug wrench or tire iron, and a tire pressure gauge.
- Fully charged cell phone(s), and a charger on board.
- A list of emergency numbers, including physician and veterinarian.
- Equipment and gear that is secured in the trailer with bungee cords or rope to keep things in place in the event of a collision.
Once horses are loaded and before driving off, check that:
- Horses are tied securely and with proper length of lead rope or quick-release trailer tie.
- Haynets are securely fastened.
- Butt chains or bars are fastened.
- All doors, windows, and gates are securely latched.
Finally, drive with caution. Towing a trailer alters the way your vehicle handles:
- Allow more time for stopping.
- Keep greater distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Signal for turns earlier.
- Stop every few hours to give your horses a break from the motion and noise, and to offer them water.
- If you’re driving more than 12 hours, break it up and plan to stay somewhere overnight.
Related Reading: Horse Stall and Paddock Safety Checklist
This article originally appeared on TheHorse.com.
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