Hurricane Preparedness - Act Before It's Too Late.

Hurricane Preparedness – Act Before It’s Too Late.

We hope you’re all enjoying time on the water with friends and family this summer. If you’re on the Gulf or East Coast (especially Florida), you’re well aware of how unpredictable the weather can be this time of year. With that in mind, we’ve put together a quick reminder checklist for everyone to consider before leaving town or preparing for an approaching storm:

Insurance First – Insurance companies can be strict following a storm. Make sure your policy is paid up to date, and review your contract for hurricane preparedness requirements and coverage details related to storm damage.
Written Storm Plan – If you do not have a full-time captain, you should have a written storm plan in place. This should have been created when you first secured coverage on your vessel. If you’re unsure, contact your insurance carrier and request a copy. If none exists, create one and submit it as soon as possible—do not wait until a storm is imminent.
Crewed Vessels – If your vessel is crewed or you employ a captain, check in with them each spring before hurricane season to review their standard securing or evacuation plan.
Upon Notification of a Named Storm – Enact Your Plan Immediately.
Relocate if Possible – Move the vessel inland or haul it out at a trusted “Hurricane Safe” yard. Secure a contract or agreement with the facility in advance.
Double All Dock Lines – Ensure lines are independently secured.
Use Spring Lines – Use at least four spring lines, and add more as needed for extra security.
Allow Clearance from Dock – Aim to tie off the vessel at least four feet from the dock.
Account for Storm Surge – Consider the potential for extreme storm surge and high winds. Dock and anchor lines must be able to accommodate the swing in tides and movement.
Disconnect Shore Power – Unplug all shore power connections and any other live electrical links.
Secure Exterior Helms – Shrink-wrap and tape off upper/outside helms.
Seal Hatches and Doors – Use vinyl tape to seal hatch cracks, and secure all doors in the closed position.
Remove Loose Items – Store soft enclosures, cushions, and any other loose items from the cockpit or deck inside the boat.
Secure Equipment – Remove and store outriggers, antennas, bimini tops, and other equipment inside the vessel or securely onshore.
Post Emergency Contact Info – Write your name and phone number with a permanent marker on a weatherproof “In Case of Emergency” notice, and tape it inside a cellophane sleeve in a visible location on the boat.
Evacuate – Do not attempt to ride out the storm aboard the vessel. We know of clients who made this decision and regretted it. There is no benefit to putting yourself at risk.