Hurricane safety tips for your boat

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Hurricane safety tips for your boat

With the help of the U.S. Coast Guard and FEMA, we've put together some tips to help you make sure your boat is hurricane-ready.

Whether your boat is docked, anchored, or in dry storage, remember:


	have a storm strategy and implement it well before the hurricane hits
	designate a friend to prepare your boat if you're out of town
	remove non-secure items and excess gear
	remove important documents and valuables
	check openings to make sure they're watertight
	shut off your fuel tanks
	close all thru-hull fittings
	check that batteries are fully charged so you can run your bilge pumps during the storm

If your boat is docked, remember to double-up on chafe protection.
Also, double all lines, attaching them high on pilings to allow for a storm surge. The longer the dock lines, the better a boat will move with high and rough tides.

If your boat is anchored, do not tie it down parallel to the shore.
Leave plenty of room between your boat and others and be sure to use enough line to allow for a storm surge. Consider several anchors and clear self-baling cockpit drains.

If your boat is in dry storage, store it in an area higher than the expected storm surge.
Lash it to its cradle with heavy lines and consider adding water to the bilge to help hold it down. Never leave your boat on davits or on a hydro-lift. If your boat is stored on a trailer, take some air out of the tires and secure the wheels with blocks between the frame and the axles.

Of course, the most important thing to remember is to protect yourself first. Never put yourself in danger while trying to protect your boat. Boats can be replaced, but lives can't!

See other safety tips: Car | RV