A quick reminder to everyone of the importance of checking your horse trailer after the recent storms

This will only take a couple of minutes but will pay dividends when coming to make that first journey out in a few weeks time or even sooner!!

We always tell people that if at all possible and if it can be safely done to park your trailer up without the handbrake being in the up or engaged or on position

This recommendation is given providing you can safely chock or secure your trailer so that there is no danger of it moving whatsoever

With all the wet and change in temperatures we have had if your handbrake is on there is every chance that despite the fact you release the handbrake the brakes will remain on

This is because the brake shoes will adhere themselves to the brake drums

We suggest even if you have left the handbrake off that you simply release it and engage to several times just to keep the cables and shoes moving

We also suggest that you do the same with your hitch handle, raise it and lower it several times just to keep the internal mechanisms moving. If you have a key operated lock this is even more important and if possible a couple of squirts of lubricating spray is highly recommended and then lock and unlock the mechanism a few times.

Check the inside of your trailer and ensure the roof vent is closed, we suggest you keep it closed for at least another month till hopefully we have seen the end of the wet weather

If you have forgotten to close this and the trailer is very wet inside it is well worth dropping the ramps, sweep out an surface water and let it air for a couple of hours.

Finally and if you have the energy, raise and lower your side and rear ramp just a couple of times just to keep the springs and hydraulic struts moving.

For the sake of 2 or 3 minutes every month over the winter doing these basics can really prevent any serious problems arising.