Securing Your Boat

The boating community frequently suffers large losses when a hurricane comes ashore.

The boat owner in particular must stay up-to-date on the latest forecasts and positions of tropical storms and hurricanes, and be ready to act long before the storm makes its fi nal approach.

General Preparation Before Hurricane Season

• Keep insurance policy up-to-date.

• Take photos and keep a written description of the vessel.

• Keep vessel in good condition.

Check bilge pump, electronics, marine hardware and keep batteries charged.

• Remove electronic gear and loose items from the boat.

Boats on Land

• Take vessels out of water if possible.

• Park the trailer close to a building, or in a garage. Attach the boat to the trailer tongue and to a fi rm spot in the ground. You can partially fi ll the boat with water for weight, but do not allow the water to touch the engine or batteries.

• Protect trailer springs from the additional weight by placing wood blocks between the frame and the axle.

Boats in Water

• If you leave your vessel in a marina, double all lines. Rig crossing spring lines fore and aft. Attach lines on the highest pilings possible to allow for storm surge.

• It is safer to move vessels into a river or as far inland as possible, as opposed to keeping vessels in a bay. Boats will receive less of a beating because of the protection from the storm surge.

• Check bilge area for loose debris that may get caught below the auto switch. If debris gets caught under the switch, the pump won’t shut off thus draining your battery. Consequently your vessel is in danger of taking on too much water.

• Make sure vessel’s fuel tank is full and fi ll any empty water tanks.

• Ensure your vessel is as watertight as possible.

• It can be dangerous tying up a vessel by yourself. Ask for help and help others. All it takes is one boat incorrectly tied up to damage many in the harbor or marina.

Offshore Boating During Storms

• Never stay on board any vessel during a tropical storm or hurricane.

• If you are out on the water, head back to a safe port.

• High seas and large ocean swells will move into the offshore waters well in advance of the wind fi eld associated with the hurricane. Do not be fooled, swells of 10 or 20 feet will test even the most seasoned boater.

• Should you need assistance at sea, call the Coast Guard as soon as possible.