Each year we’re getting wiser from the experiences each of us
encounter during Hurricane Season, but it doesn’t hurt to review a few tips for
securing your boat. There is a wealth of
information available on the Internet, or from your insurance company, but the
best preparation is to make a plan well ahead of time and be prepared.
Location: Choosing
the most storm-worthy location for your boat is probably the number one
consideration you need to make. A boat
in the water should only be secured in a well-protected marina. A seawall or sandy spit that normally
protects a harbor may not offer any protection in a hurricane. Water can surge over the seawall and flood
the harbor or basin. A fixed dock will
require you to keep a frequent eye on it to loosen and tighten the lines and
the water surge changes. If your
location is on dry land you will need to be sure to have it secured well. Breaking waves or water surges can rise over
the banks and lift the boats off of their jack stands. Many times these boats are left in the streets
once the water recedes. There may not be
a perfect location, depending on your physical location, but you must think
through your options ahead of time and have a plan if needed.
Flying Hazards: Remove canvas, sails and loose items that
could be lifted by the wind and become hazardous flying objects. This includes any loose fitting item that
might be ripped off by the high winds.
Docking: Double up dock and fender lines and add chafe
guards to keep your lines from fraying.
Remember that your fenders may be lifted by the wind and become useless,
you’ll need to cross tie your boat to hold it away from the dock. Tie your dock lines so they can be adjusted
from the dock, and consider using snubbers.
If you are on a fixed dock, make sure your lines are long enough to
allow for the rising water.
Electrical Power:
Remember that power may go out or be
disconnected. Shut down everything you
can to conserve battery power for your bilge pumps. Make sure your batteries are fully charged
and always have extra batteries charged and close by.
Photos: Take photos of your boat after preparations
are made, in case you need them for an insurance claim.
Stay Informed: Keep a good check on weather updates and be
sure you have a battery operated radio with extra batteries available. Ensure that you have a plan in place to
receive safety warnings and alerts.
Insurance
Documents: If you have filed a
hurricane plan with your insurance company, locate it and follow it. Some insurance companies will pay for half of
the expense of hauling your boat as storm prep, but storing your boat on the
hard isn’t a guarantee of safety. Winds
can cause it to rock in the jacks, throwing it off balance and causing it to
fall. Tie down straps or chains can
mitigate this somewhat. If your boat
yard is not paved, make sure the jack stands are on plywood or another solid
surface.
After The Storm: Before you start your boat, if your boat is
gasoline powered check your blower vent to make sure it isn’t filled with water
and trapping gas fumes . You’ll also
need to check the security of your shore power connection. If the engine and other machinery was
submerged or had gotten wet, it should be flushed with fresh water and then
filling with fuel.
As an avid boater and waterfront property owner,
I take severe weather conditions serious.
I’ve seen first-hand the damage that not being prepared can bring. I stay informed and enjoy providing articles
such as this to my boating community. Please
visit my site for the latest in quality and affordable boating and docking
supplies. Visit us and feel free to leave your comments and/or feedback at
www.bestdockaccessories.com.
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