Taken from the webpage of Blue Bridle-a blog about equine insurance - this article was posted by Joan on 3/7/2014. Since it was good just like she wrote it, we just passed it along just as it was. Enjoy.

Spring is approaching and along with (hopefully) kinder milder weather, the horse show season will get into full swing. Be aware, increased incidents of theft are seasonal with more taking place in warm weather. So be conscious of guarding against theft when stabling at horse show facilities, as well as at home.

We can learn about loss prevention from the victims who have had tack stolen. It may be worth your while to take a moment to review 10 tips for safe guarding tack from thieves.

When it comes to our tack and equipment, location will often dictate to what extent you feel it necessary to guard against theft. The following list may help you decide what methods you should implement:

1. Topping the list – place a sturdy lock on your tack room, storage areas or horse trailer and then lock it.
2. Consider suitable sound or light sensors or alarm systems.
3. Consider steel storage vented mini-lockers. These are difficult to break into.
4. Don’t leave your very expensive tack vulnerable to theft. See that it is returned to a safe place when you return home from a show or event.
5. Cooperate with neighbors. Be aware of who is in your neighborhood. Note strange vehicles slowly driving by.
6. Report anything suspicious. Note license numbers and vehicle descriptions.
7. *If your saddle or equipment does not carry a serial number, consider engraving an “owner applied number” (OAN) on the leather under the front left flap. Include your state abbreviation code to help law enforcement agencies.
8. Report theft at once with a full description.
9. Carry a copy of the burglary report with the case number. If you happen upon your saddle or stolen equipment, do not confront the person. Call the nearest law enforcement agency and ask that an officer respond. Show the officer the copy of your report and let the officer handle everything.
10. Invite your local police to your place to evaluate ways to secure your property from thieves.

Thieves will often follow the show circuit which is just getting underway in much of the country. Caution – someone is watching. Thieves know what they are looking for and where to find it. They carry out their plan day or night. They may be someone you know so the dogs may not bark when they come. And, discourage the burglar with obstacles to a quick “in and out” theft.

Farmowners insurance can cover theft if you have opted to add your tack and equipment (Farm Personal Property) to your policy. Not sure if you are covered? Contact your agent today.

Have you experienced a theft? Can you add helpful tips to these suggestions?

*Stolen items that have a serial number or OAN can be entered in to the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC). This is an electronic clearinghouse of crime data that can be tapped by criminal justice agencies nationwide.

http://bluebridle.com/blog/farmowners-insurance-theft-tack-equiment/