In the Event of a Hurricane, Don't Forget to Protect Your Boat, Too

Hurricane season traditionally runs from June to November, with August and September being the most volatile months for these violent storms. And with the potential of high winds, storm surges, rising sea levels, increased tides, and more than two or three inches of rainfall per hour, it’s absolutely crucial to plan ahead. The National Hurricane Center can help keep you up-to-date on any hurricane or tropical storm-related weather events.

Once you’re confident that your family and home are secure, you can turn your attention to making sure your boat is prepped for the storm.

Before the Storm
Prepare your boat for the hurricane season well in advance. Start with a detailed written list that includes:
•    An evacuation plan. Your plan should include the removal of all detachable items, such as canvas, sails, dinghies, radios, cushions, and other equipment. If your boat is docked in a marina, talk to the operator so there are no questions or confusion when the time comes to tie up or pull your boat from the water.
•    Boat evacuation drills. Practice drills frequently to help prevent panic in case an unexpected hurricane hits.
•    Stocking of emergency supplies. Stock up on supplies ahead of time to avoid the likely shortages that occur once a hurricane alert is announced.
•    Charging your boat’s radio. Always charge the radio before your vessel leaves port, so you can always get up-to-the-minute weather bulletins.
•    Securing essential documents. Keep boat insurance policies, photos of your vessel, registration, equipment inventory, contact phone numbers, and other essential documents in a safe, secure location on dry land.

When a Hurricane Is Imminent
With global weather tracking, you generally have 12 to 24 hours of advance warning before a hurricane. Start implementing your plan as soon as possible after learning of a storm.
•    Prepare the boat. Turn off the boat’s electrical system and remove the battery. Take any moveable equipment off the vessel to prevent breakage. Lash down anything that can’t be removed, such as tillers, wheels, and booms. Wrap protective covering wherever the ropes touch the boat to prevent chafing. Seal off all windows, doors, and hatches, and make sure to shut off your boat’s fuel lines.
•    If you plan to keep your vessel in the water. Anchor your boat with at least two anchors and position the boat’s bow in the direction of the prevailing winds. Ensure that anchor lines are 10 times the water depth at the mooring location to counteract the effects of a storm surge. Cover engine room vents and plug the stern’s exhaust pipes to prevent water from flooding your motor.
•    On dry land. For small, lightweight boats, it is best to trailer the vessel as far inland as possible. Lash the boat to the trailer securely and place blocks around the wheels to prevent the trailer from rolling. For bigger boats, lash the vessel to its storage cradle with several heavy lines. Depending on the weight of the boat, consider pumping water into the bilge to hold the vessel down more securely. Never leave the boat on davits or a hydraulic lift.
The United States Coast Guard has more details on how best to prepare your boat.

Check Your Boat Insurance
A hurricane can be a very frightening experience, but with the right preparation you can help minimize loss. Make sure you have sufficient boat insurance — it can help protect you against many of the risks of owning and operating a boat. For more information, contact your local insurance agent.

Article submitted by Brennan Purdy of State Farm Insurance

My vision is to be an insurance professional whose actions are driven by keeping the customer's best interest as my primary goal. My staff will treat all my customers in a caring, friendly, and professional manner. My office will provide warm, efficient, and seamless services to our customers at all times. I expect my business to be comprised of knowledgeable, multiple-line customers who see my office as their first and best choice for all their insurance and financial service needs

For more information on these and other home safety tips, stop by my office or visit www.brennanpurdy.com. My office is conveniently located in downtown Bethel. 203-798-7300.                   211 Greenwood Avenue , Bethel, CT 06801

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