Riding Out The Storm

Living on the coast of Florida we know that there are certain risks. One of those risks is hurricanes. Hurricanes can bring rapidly rising waters, heavy winds, and damaging hail. We have heard how to protect ourselves and our homes, but what about our boats?


We have learned a lot though past hurricanes, sadly learned mostly from our mistakes. Here are a few things to remember when you are preparing your boat for a hurricane.


One of the most important things to do before there is even a threat of a storm is to make sure that your boat is insured. Also make sure to read over your insurance to make sure that it covers for events such as hurricanes and the debris from the winds.  Also before the storm, you will want to make a storm plan, which is just where and how your boat will be secured during the storm. Most also include a designated person who is responsible if you are out of town.


The threat of a storm has just come across the news. You will need to go down to the marina and check to make sure it will be ok for your boat to remain there. Once you get the ok, go onboard and make an inventory of everything you have on the boat. It is easiest just to take a quick video. Then you will want to make sure your boat is centered in its slip and tied down tight. Next you will deflate any dinghy’s you have onboard and disconnect the battery of the boat.


It is important to remember that you do not want to stay with your boat. Head home and keep an eye on your local weather. Using these tips will help you to get through the storm and be able to get back on the water in no time once the storm is passed.