Equine Crime Rise

Posted on February 8, 2013 by tarahamilton

Equine crime is a real problem, especially in rural areas and every year hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of horses, ponies and equipment are stolen. These thieves specifically target stables and rural premises as they can be generally low on security and isolated.

Recent news stories have highlighted the scale of this problem. At the end of December 2012, £25,000 worth of horse tack was stolen from a Lincolnshire stable and early in January 2013 more than £50,000 pounds worth of tack were found in a property raid in Oxfordshire.

Det Sgt Steve Birchill from the Thames Valley Police said “[The thieves] are going round the areas and taking advantage of the fact that places are left unoccupied or unlocked”. Police are warning and urging people to take greater care in protecting their items.

Keep your horse and tack safe

Keep your horse and tack safe

How to keep your horses and tack secure:

Horse security

  • Freeze marking – This will permanently mark the horse on the saddle patch with a unique number and registration papers.
  • Hoof marking – Brand your postcode onto the horses hooves, this will need redoing as the hoof grows.
  • Micro-chip – Get a micro-chip implanted by a vet. The signal will help you locate your horse if it is stolen.
  • Horse passport – make sure your horse passport.

Stable yard security

  • Secure your stable yard with fences, hedges and gates
  • Make sure gates are changed and fitted with anti-lift locks
  • Put theft warning signs on display
  • Fit security lighting, alarms and even CCTV

Tack security

  • Postcode stamp all items.
  • Make sure your tack is always locked away when you aren’t around.
  • Saddles and bridles should be locked to their racks.
  • The doors to your tack room should be reinforced with steel and heavy duty locks.

If you are looking for a secure way to store your horse tack, the Asgard Tack Storage Box offers the best security for your tack.

“Very heavy unit, very strong.  We have had it 1 month and already our horse has kicked it.  Still standing though”

Asgard Tack Storage Box

Asgard Tack Storage Box

This is an incredibly strong metal storage unit, weighing in at 17.5 stone and made from strong weatherproof steel. It has been fitted with a tough 5 point locking system and pick resistant locking mechanism to help prevent tack theft. This tack storage box has also been approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board to Level 1, which may help to reduce insurance premiums. Visit the Asgard website for more information.

Filed under: asgard, Best sheds, Horse riding equipment, Horse Tack Storage | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Protect your school from equipment theft

Posted on January 29, 2013 by tarahamilton

In 2012, there were countless reports of school yard break-ins. Thieves were targeting school and nursery playgrounds and breaking into storage sheds and garages, stealing their toys and equipment. Protecting school and playground equipment has become increasingly important to avoid theft, as stories like this one from a Bromsgrove High School become more frequent. Back in August 2012 North Bromsgrove High School Suffered a massive loss after 30 bikes were stolen from two storage containers at the school, luckily for them the thieves were caught.

If you are concerned about the security of your current outdoor school storage, it may be time to upgrade it to something which offers stronger security.  Asgard Secure Steel Storage have a huge range of school and playground storage designed to offer the best outdoor security for your school.

Child friendly playground storage

Child friendly playground storage

All of Asgard School Storage Packs are made from strong weatherproof steel and come with an abundance of features including strong locking systems and pick resistant locking mechanisms. Asgard school storage also includes delivery and installation of the metal storage units and come complete with hooks and shelving storage accessories.

Asgard School Storage

Asgard School Storage

“Our Asgard unit has been a godsend.  I have all our garden furniture, tools, mowers and the kids bikes in with room to spare!  Thanks! ” S.S. Yorkshire

“Our sheds look great in our new outdoor area. They blend into our eco environment whilst keeping our enrichment boxes and equipment safe, dry and accessible. Thank you.”C.A Headteacher St. James’ C.E Primary Wardle

These playground storage units also provide child friendly storage as there are no exposed screws or sharp edges inside the unit.

To find out more about each of the Asgard school packs visit the Asgard website.

Filed under: asgard, Outdoor play equipment storage, outdoor storage, School Storage, Secure storage | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

This year stick to your resolution

Posted on January 10, 2013 by tarahamilton

It’s a new year and for many it’s a time to start a new hobby or regain a lost one. How many times have you heard yourself say ‘this year I will learn how to ski’ and every year you never do it. So many New Year’s Resolutions don’t make it to the end of January before they are given up on, it’s time to stop with the excuses and finally do one of the many things you have always told yourself you would.

The majority of resolutions focus around getting fit, learning something new and having more fun. Starting a new outdoor activity is a great way to achieve all of these things at once. Whether it be learning to ride a bike, or just getting on one again, learning how to ski/Snowboard, taking up horse riding or finally growing that vegetable garden that you have always dreamed of, there are a variety of things that you can do to meet your resolution needs.

Is this the year you finally start cycling

Is this the year you finally start cycling?

Every year millions of people will fail their resolutions, there are a variety of reasons for this, including:

  • The resolution is unrealistic
  • The resolution is unspecific
  • It is based on willpower
  • You’ve gone solo
  • You give up too easily

How to stick to your resolution:

  • Be specific
  • Get support
  • Take action immediately
  • Set daily, weekly or monthly goals
Keep your fishing tackle outside

Learning to fish? Asgard has the storage for you.

If you are taking up a new sport this year or want to get serious about gardening, Asgard will be able to help you along the way. If the amount of equipment you need for your new resolution is mounting up and you have nowhere to keep it, purchasing an activity/sports specific secure storage unit should be on your list of things to do. Asgard has a wide range of secure steel storage units, designed specifically to keep your items safe and secure.

With bike storage, ski storage, Horse tack storage, metal garden sheds and high security workshop storage you are bound to find the perfect storage unit to protect your expensive and growing activity equipment.  Visit the Asgard website to see the full range of steel storage options.

Filed under: asgard, Bike storage, cycle storage, Fishing Tackle Storage, Garden sheds, Sports storage unit | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Cleaning your horse tack

Posted on December 13, 2012 by tarahamilton

Keeping your tack well cleaned and in good condition will help it to last longer.  Save yourself some money on expensive replacements by following these few tips.

For your maintenance and cleaning you will need:

  • Glycerine soap
  • A soft cloth
  • A sponge
  • Leather conditioner
Keep your horse tack clean

Keep your horse tack clean

Daily care

Try and clean your equipment after each ride, this will make it easier to do a deep clean when you have more time.

  • Wipe off the bit with a clean cloth after every ride, keeping this clean will make it much more pleasant for your horse.
  • Wipe down the reigns and cheek pieces near the bit after each ride to prevent mould from developing.
  • Wipe down any part of tack that comes into contact with the horses’ body, to clean off any sweat or dirt.

Cleaning

  • Unbuckle every buckle of your bridle and wipe off any excess dirt.
  • Use a damp sponge to work the glycerine soap into the leather, thoroughly clean the buckles and folds in the leather.
  • Wipe off any excess.

Conditioning

  • Work in a leather conditioner to your tack before it is fully dry and wipe off any excess
  • Be sure not to use too much conditioner, as this can leave tack flimsy and keep it away from the stitching as this can rot away the thread.

Storage

Leather left in moist conditions attracts mould and if you store your tack in damp conditions, it is only a matter of time before it starts to attract mould and mildew.

You can tell if your leather has mould, as it will have a white/green powder substance on it. This needs to be treated, because if it is left for a long time it can cause serious damage. To clean mouldy leather use a mix of rubbing alcohol and water (Ratio 1:1), use a damp cloth and wipe down effected areas.  Follow this by conditioning and storing in a dry area.

Asgard Tack Storage Box

Asgard Tack Storage Box

It is worth investing in storage for your tack to prevent mould from growing on your leathers and to stop it from reoccurring.  It is important for tack to be stored in a dry place, to keep it in the best condition possible. The Asgard tack storage box provides dry and secure storage for your tack. This tack storage box is made from strong weather proof (galvanised) steel, this solid construction helps to protect your tack from theft. It is incredibly tough, insurance approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board to level 1 and fitted with a strong 5 point locking system and pick resistant locking mechanism, to keep thieves out! The addition there is a rain guard, which keeps strong wind and rain out and a unique ventilation system, which minimises condensation all help to keep the tack storage box moisture free.

Filed under: asgard, Horse riding equipment, Horse Tack Storage, Sheds | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

Ski Maintenance

Posted on December 8, 2012 by tarahamilton

If you’re new to skiing, planning your first ski holiday or just want to know more about how to take care of your skis, here is the information you’ve been searching for. It is important to keep your skis in the best condition.

Wax

If your skis are slow and sticky, this is a sign that they need waxing. If you are skiing regularly, your skis should be waxed every 5 days or so.

 

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Sharpen

A day or two of skiing can dull the edges of your skis. You can check if your skis need sharpening by running your fingernail across the edge of your ski. If it is sharp, it should take a shaving from your fingernail. Edge maintenance is quick and easy to carry out.

Clean

Your skis should be cleaned after every use. Wipe off excess moisture before storage, as this will prevent rust.  Hanging your skis vertically will also allow your skis to dry quickly

A full maintenance technique guide is available at realskiers.com

Storage

asgard-ski-storage
You skis should be stored in a dry area, to prevent the steel edges from rusting. If you have little space in your home and need somewhere dry and secure to store your skis, Asgard have a range of different sports equipment storage solutions and the Ski Storage unit does exactly what it says, store your skis! The Ski storage unit is made from strong galvanised (weatherproof) steel and is highly secure. Security is the focus of this ski storage unit, it is fitted with a tough 5 point locking system and pick resistant locking mechanism, to prevent theft. The reinforced doors, hinges and panels add resistance to forced entry, making this metal storage unit incredibly tough! This unit is also insurance approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board to level 1, which could help to reduce insurance premiums. Unlike a wooden storage shed, Asgard Sports equipment storage units are designed to keep wind and rain out and are fitted with a wind and rain guard to do the job. The ski storage unit can be used in conjunction with your existing garage for added security, or can be placed outside.  To find out more about the Asgard ski storage unit and sports equipment storage, visit the Asgard website.

Filed under: asgard, Ski Storage Unit, Snowboard Storage Unit, Sports storage unit | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Horse riding tips for this winter

Posted on November 4, 2012 by tarahamilton

The cold blistering weather is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean you should stop riding. Horse riding in the winter can be just as enjoyable as riding in the warmer months, as long as you are properly prepared.  Here are a few tips that will help you and your horse to get through the cold spell.

Dress appropriately

This is common sense, make sure you wrap up warm and dress in layers.Select items that are warm and waterproof.

Slow down

Work at a slower pace as horses sometimes need time to adjust to the footing if they aren’t used to walking on frozen ground.

Prepare for winter riding

Choose a safe route- avoid hazards

A familiar path or route is best for winter riding, riders and horses are less likely to be surprised by unseen hazards.  Roads can become very slippery and should be crossed with caution and icy ponds/puddles should be avoided.  In winter weather conditions it is also safer to go riding with someone else.

Plan an extra cool down

More time will be needed for the horse to cool down after a ride, before returning to the stall.  Try a horse cooler to prevent chills until their perspiration dries.

Check your equipment

The cold weather can cause problems for riding equipment. The moisture as well as repeated freezing and thawing can harm components especially those made of leather or metal. Make sure you check and condition equipment regularly.

Asgard Tack Storage Box

To keep your horse riding equipment in good condition during the winter make sure it is stored away correctly, away from moisture to prevent damage.  Make sure your equipment storage unit is water tight. For protection from the bad weather and secure storage  Asgard have a secure Tack storage Box perfect for keeping your horse tack and equipment protected. The Tack Storage box is made from strong galvanised steel and is extremely secure. This storage unit is fitted with an integral rain guard to keep strong wind and rain out and a unique ventilation system minuses condensation,  to help stored items stay in great condition.

More tips on winter riding available here

Filed under: Horse riding equipment, Horse Tack Storage | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

Storage Sheds for Schools and Colleges.

Posted on September 24, 2012 by nazishs

Buying equipment for schools, nurseries colleges and universities can be very difficult.  With so much decisions to make, product catalogues available and tenders paperwork to complete, it can be daunting to know where to start.

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Child-friendly secure storage units – ideal for nurseries and schools.

But if you are searching for secure outdoor storage units for sports and playground equipment, why not try Asgard?

Over 2,000 of the high quality Asgard walk in storage units are used in schools throughout the UK and provide heavy duty secure multi-purpose storage.  All of our units are designed to be tough and robust with reinforced panels and doors to prevent entry by even the most persistent criminals.

Secure and convenient outdoor storage

Secure and convenient outdoor storage

Still not sure? Here are 8 reasons to choose an Asgard Storage Unit.

1) Asgard storage units have either a five or three point locking system with our highly acclaimed pick resistant lock, ensuring your equipment remains safe inside.

2) All our units are made from thick galvanised steel with a weatherproof exterior quality paint finish for lasting protection against the elements.

3) All our products are supplied with a 10-year warranty for long lasting protection.

4) All of our high quality playground storage units have a built-in steel floor.  This provides added strength and for easy fixing to the ground.
5) An additional child friendly internal wooden floor sits inside the unit for added child safety and comfort.

6) All school storage packs come with additional heavy duty shelves and strong hooks are perfect for keeping your toys and equipment off the floor and out of reach and to maximise storage space.

7) The price for this packs includes FREE delivery, assembly and anchoring down by our own installation team. (Please Note: You should have a pre-prepared firm level base (50mm thick) on which we can build the units.)

8 ) We have a full nationwide customer service team back up. Have a question?? Just call us! Speak to our friendly Asgard team on 08456 580 73 to help you make an informed choice about which storage unit is right for your school.

For more information, visit http://www.asgardsss.co.uk or call us on 08456 580 730 if you have any questions about storage options for your educational institution.

Filed under: Outdoor play equipment storage, outdoor sports storage, School sheds & storage, School Storage, Secure storage, Sports storage unit | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Going Fishing? Get the New Fishing Tackle Storage Unit from Asgard.

Posted on August 9, 2012 by nazishs

If you like nothing more then sitting by a peaceful riverbank with your fishing rod and a thermos flask for hours on end, then you are probably one of the 3 million anglers in the UK.  Not only is it a relaxing way to spend your afternoon, it can be both enjoyable and challenging, as well as potentially providing a tasty dinner at the end of the day!

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Time to go fishing with the NEW Compact Fishing Storage Unit from Asgard

Whether you are amateur angler or a seasoned fisherman, keeping your collection of fishing rods, landing nets, seat boxes, holdall bags, clothing and bait boxes safe and secure can be difficult.  If you have no room in your garage, and find it isn’t practical to keep it stored inside your home, then you might be interested to know about the latest Compact Fishing Tackle Storage Unit. 

 This new storage unit from Asgard is a security approved outdoor unit ideal for storing all your tackle and fishing equipment.

Built from heavy-duty galvanised (weather proof) steel panels and integral metal floor, this Asgard Fishing Tackle Storage Unit is easily accessible via the large double door access.  Measuring at over 6 foot tall and nearly 4 foot wide, this heavy-duty outdoor storage unit is secure and spacious enough for all of your expensive fishing gear.

The New Fishing Tackle Storage Unit from Asgard

Store all your expensive fishing gear in the NEW Security approved Fishing Tackle Storage Unit from Asgard.

And what’s more, this unit is fitted with a tough 5-point locking system and reinforced doors, hinges and panels, and is the only outdoor metal fishing tackle storage unit, which has been approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (to level 1) in the UK.  This independent industry test ensures that this unit offers the highest security storage facility for your valuable property and equipment and can even lower your insurance premium*.Ideal for all types of anglers, from fly fishing tackle to a range of fishing gear for coarse angling – the Compact Fishing Tackle Storage Unit is an exceptionally secure and versatile storage unit.  For more information, visit our website http://www.asgardsss.co.uk. 

Filed under: Best sheds, Fishing Tackle Storage, Outdoor activities, outdoor sports storage, outdoor storage, Sheds, Sports storage unit | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Horse tack thieves out in force!

Posted on August 3, 2012 by tarahamilton

As you will know from our Shedforce twitter feed and the blog, we are constantly updating you with theft news. Everyday new stories are published regarding a variety of different thefts from garden, shed, bike, and motorcycle to fishing tackle theft.  However in the last couple of weeks more and more horse equipment and tack thefts have been in the news from different parts of the country.

In Leominster over a £1,000 worth of horse training equipment was stolen from a barn. Thieves gained access into the barn by cutting a padlock off a gate and another padlock off the barn door. It seems that theft was made all too easy for the thieves. Bedfordshire were hit by burglars, with more than £20,000 worth of Jewellery and horse tack being stolen over a series of properties. Derbyshire has also experienced tack theft from stables. Unfortunately break-ins and theft is on the rise and it doesn’t look like it is likely to change anytime soon.

Protect your horse tack from theft

With theft spread all over the country, it is really important that your valuables are locked up securely. As we have seen from the theft in Leominster a padlock isn’t as secure as you might think, they can be easily cut through with the right tools, if you want to keep thieves out, a more sophisticated locking mechanism will be needed. When locks, hinges and screws are exposed on the outside, thieves will find a way to get in.

A great way of keeping your horse tack and other equipment safe is with the Asgard tack storage box. This is a tough, strong secure metal unit and is perfect for keeping your equipment safe.  This is a versatile unit, compact in size making it great for a stable, barn or any area.

The unit has a range of features which keep thieves out, these include:

  • A 5 point metal locking system, with a pick resistant lock
  • Reinforced doors, hinges, panels and joints to prevent forced entry
  • Can be screwed to a concrete base

The Asgard horse tack storage is also approved by the Loss prevention Certification Board, which may help to reduce insurance premiums. See here for the full range of features>

Customers have been very pleased with the unit

“Very heavy unit, very strong.  We have had it 1 month and already our horse has kicked it.  Still standing though”!

“We really like our unit.  It blends in so well with our stable area” 

If you are concerned with protecting your horse tack, the Asgard tack storage box an excellent choice.

Information from  Bedford today,  Hereford Times and Ripley and Heanor News 

Filed under: asgard, Horse riding equipment, Horse Tack Storage, outdoor storage, Secure storage | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Combat the rise in fishing tackle theft

Posted on July 27, 2012 by tarahamilton

Garden and shed theft has steadily been on the rise over the last year. From bikes to garden flowers, nothing left outside is off limits for these criminals.  The news over July has highlighted the theft of fishing tackle in various parts of the country. If you are a keen fisher you will know that this equipment is expensive, making it very appealing to thieves. In Spilsby a shed was broken into and various pieces of fishing tackle were stolen. Thieves in Weymouth broke into a garden shed and stole £6,000 worth of fishing equipment and again in Norwich a shed break in resulted in fishing tackle being stolen.

All of these thefts had one thing in common, the fishing equipment was stored in a garden shed. Local police are warning people of shed and garage break-ins. If you do store expensive items in your shed it is important to invest in security, as well as marking valuables so that if they do get stolen they will be easier to find. For information on marking your valuables and registering them on the UK National Property register, visit Immobilise.

If you are looking for highly secure storage for your fishing equipment, Asgard have a range of secure steel fishing tackle storage units available. These are extremely secure metal security sheds and the unit is also available in an insurance approvedversion. The  fishing tackle storage units are made from weatherproof steel, has reinforced doors and a tough locking system that is pick resistant. The metal storage unit is designed to keep thieves out.

Asgard fishing tackle storage

Just check out the reviews

“This is a great unit.  The height is perfect for my Pole hold-all and rod bag.  Loads of room to spare for my trolley, seat box and even hanging space for my “Bib and Braces”.  I have recommended this to all my fishing club mates”  C.R – Huddersfield

“An excellent idea – now I can leave all my equipment outside of the house and i don’t have to move the car out of the garage to get to my tackle” – A

 “Now I have the time to fish I have some very expensive equipment. After being a victim of a garage theft once before I treated myself to one of these units to keep all my new kit in.  I have to say it really is a quality unit”- RP

For more information on this product visit Asgard.

Filed under: Fishing Tackle Storage, Fishing Tackle Storage Shed, Secure storage, Sheds, Sports storage unit | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

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