365 Days in Horse Country – Stable Lighting
When the sun is shining and you are spending time with your horse, lighting is the last thing on your mind. But if you have ever found yourself trying to muck stalls or untack your horse in the dark, you know how important stable lighting really is.
Here are some key places that need lighting to keep in mind when
you are planning or redesigning your stable.
- Work space – The area
where you tack and untack your horse should have lighting that allows you to
see what you are doing without casting a lot of shadows. If possible, use
multiple light sources that are overhead but angled. This will prevent shadows that will keep your
tacking area in the dark while you are working.
- Stalls and
pastures - It’s a good idea to have light in your horse’s stall or
pasture. A sick horse or one in another
kind of trouble may need your help in the dark.
You may also find the need to do barn chores such as mucking after the
sun goes down. Having a nearby light
that can brighten up the space should you need it can prove invaluable.
- Tack room – You can
opt for a sophisticated lighting system in your tack room installed by an electrician
if your budget allows for it, or simply purchase a battery-operated lantern
designed for camping and place it near the door so you can turn it on when you
first come in.
Michael