Techniques To Setup Ones Sailboat For A Tropical Storm
When it comes to what must be done by boat owners in case there’s a hurricane approaching, every marina has different rules. States are beginning to pass laws requiring boat owners to prepare their boats ever since Katrina and Wilma. In case of a hurricane, how can boat owners protect their boats and themselves?
Offering the most advice are these two basic rules and most experts agree with them. The first thing you need to do is plan ahead. Your contract with your marina should be checked as well as any additional regulations with your state. You should also check with your boat insurance company to see if they have regulations that may affect your coverage. During the off-season, conduct a dry run to be sure you understand how much time is necessary to prepare or move your boat.
Attempting to ride out a hurricane in your boat is not safe. There is a persistent myth that being on a boat in open water is safer than being on land during a hurricane, but the facts do not bear it out. Boats can be carried far inland or even sink because of hurricane tides and winds. You shouldn’t risk your life for you boat.
Moving your boat is always the best way to prevent damage if at all possible. To do this, you need to arrange for inland storage space well ahead of time. What many boat owners don’t know is that often locked down before a hurricane are drawbridges in order to facilitate the evacuation of people from low-lying areas. This increases the importance of moving your boat as soon as a hurricane watch is issued for your area.
Some areas have flotilla plans in place in order to move the maximum number of boats in the shortest time. Flotilla information will be issued in advance of a hurricane by your local emergency management office. If joining a flotilla is what you’re planning to do, then you need to properly fuel and maintain your boat.
If it’s not possible to move your boat, then you can do some simple things in order to minimize damage. Portable items like dinghies, sun shades, antennas, etc. should be removed from your boat because they may cause damage when blown around. The remaining items should be lashed down. To secure your boat well in advance, obtain rope and other supplies because before a storm, these items may be in short supply.
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