Stormy Adventure: A Boat Dock's Tale

Storms can be extremely dangerous for boats and boat docks, causing billions of dollars worth of damage every year. Hurricanes, in particular, can cause high water surges, strong winds, heavy waves, and flooding. Therefore, it is crucial for boat and dock owners to take precautions and prepare for potential storm damage. This includes having safety equipment on board, investing in lightning protection systems, reinforcing dock lines, and removing potential debris. Additionally, it is important to monitor weather conditions and have a plan for relocating boats and docks if a storm is approaching.

Preparing a floating dock for a storm

Step 1: Understand the Risks

Hurricanes and storms pose several risks to your floating dock and boat. These include high water surges that can submerge fixed docks, high winds that can damage sails and loose items, and heavy waves that can rock your boat. Storms can also cause flooding, create dangerous debris, and stir up unsafe bacteria in the water. Understanding these risks will help you take the necessary precautions.

Step 2: Stay Informed and Plan Ahead

Stay informed about hurricane watches and warnings. Typically, hurricane watches are issued 48 hours in advance, while warnings are given 36 hours before the anticipated winds. Create a hurricane emergency plan and update it regularly. Collect all relevant information about your dock and vessel, including licenses, registrations, insurance policies, and lease agreements. Know the hurricane protocol of your marina or storage facility.

Step 3: Inspect and Secure Your Dock

Ensure your floating dock is properly installed and anchored. Inspect all areas, including the gangway, couplers, railings, and fixtures, for any damage or vulnerabilities, and make the necessary repairs. If you cannot remove your dock, secure it by attaching it to a nearby fixed structure using a long, sturdy rope tied above potential surges and tides. Add dock bumpers to protect your dock and neighbouring properties in case of collisions.

Step 4: Remove Potential Hazards

Remove all loose items and potential debris from your dock, such as kayaks, paddle boards, chairs, decorations, and removable railings. These items can become dangerous projectiles during a storm. Take photos of your dock to facilitate insurance claims in case of damage.

Step 5: Prepare Your Boat

Check the lines anchoring your boat to the dock, and use chafe gear for added protection. Remove valuables, important documents, and electronic equipment from your boat. Secure all drawers, cabinets, windows, and hatches to prevent them from opening during the storm. Cover engine vents and plug exhausts. Remove curtains, rugs, and carpeting if possible. Turn off circuit breakers and disconnect power cords to prevent electrical damage.

Step 6: Final Preparations

If possible, relocate your boat to a safe area on land, away from bodies of water, and secure it on a trailer. If you must leave your boat in the water, invest in boat bumpers or fenders to absorb the impact of collisions. Charge your boat's battery and test its performance, including the bilge pump, radio, lights, and navigation devices.

Remember, your safety is the top priority. Do not risk your life trying to secure your dock or boat during an active storm. Evacuate if necessary, and always follow the instructions of local authorities.

Dock and boat safety during a hurricane

Dock and boat safety are crucial during a hurricane. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure safety and minimize damage:

Before the Hurricane:

Dock Preparation:

• Ensure your floating dock is properly installed. This is crucial to prevent it from coming loose during strong winds.
• Inspect and repair your dock thoroughly. Pay attention to the gangway, couplers, railings, and other fixtures. Take notes and photos of any damage or vulnerable areas.
• Secure the dock by anchoring it and attaching it to a nearby fixed structure. Use sturdy ropes and tie them above potential water surges and tides.
• Add dock bumpers to protect your dock and neighboring properties in case your dock comes loose.
• Remove all potential debris, furniture, decor, and removable items from your dock to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
• Consult local regulations and guidelines for specific instructions on hurricane preparation for docks.

Boat Preparation:

• Decide whether to keep your boat in the water or move it to land. Smaller boats are more vulnerable to high winds and waves.
• If keeping your boat on the dock, tie it down securely, use multiple anchors, and cover it to prevent items from falling in.
• Add boat fenders if your boat is docked near other boats.
• Plug exhaust pipes and cover engine vents to prevent water damage.
• Remove all loose objects and personal belongings from your boat. Store them safely or tie them down securely.
• Charge your boat batteries and have a backup battery ready.
• Ensure all boating paperwork is in order, including insurance, inventory of items, and registration.
• Turn off the boat's electrical system and remove the battery.
• Remove detachable equipment like radios, sails, cushions, and dinghies to prevent breakage.
• Lash down or tie down immovable parts such as doors, windows, storage hatches, and booms.
• Seal off all openings, including windows, doors, and hatches, to prevent water ingress.
• Shut off fuel lines and fuel sources to prevent leaks.

During the Hurricane:

• Stay indoors, listen to news and weather updates, and be ready to evacuate if necessary.
• If you are caught on your boat during the hurricane, put on life jackets and harnesses to ensure safety in case someone falls overboard.
• Stow away any unneeded objects and gear to prevent them from becoming projectiles or causing injury.
• Close windows and securely fasten latches to prevent water from flooding the cabin.
• Stay away from metal objects to avoid the risk of electrocution from lightning strikes.
• Slow down the boat and steer at a 45-degree angle toward the docking area to avoid being swamped by waves.

After the Hurricane:

• Inspect your dock and boat for any damage once it is safe to do so.
• Clean and sanitize your dock and boat to remove any dirt, bacteria, or debris.
• Report any damage or missing items to the authorities and your insurance company.

Remember, early preparation is key to ensuring the safety of your dock and boat during a hurricane. Stay informed, follow local guidelines, and take proactive steps to protect your property and your family.

Boat safety items and equipment

Boat safety is paramount, and there are many items and pieces of equipment that can help keep you and your crew safe. Here is a detailed list of safety items and equipment that you should consider for your boat:

Life Jackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

All passengers and crew members must have a properly fitting life jacket, also known as a PFD. These are essential lifesaving devices, especially in emergencies like capsizing or falling overboard. Ensure that you have enough wearable flotation devices on board for each person and that they are easily accessible. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) mandates that these life jackets must be in good condition and approved by them.

Fire Extinguishers

Fires can spread rapidly on boats, especially with fuel on board. It is crucial to have a Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher to control or extinguish a fire. Check the extinguisher's expiration date and ensure it is suitable for fuel-related fires, typically a Class B extinguisher.

Sound-Producing Devices

Whistles, horns, or bells are necessary to signal other vessels, especially in low-visibility situations like fog or at night. Regularly test these devices to ensure they are functioning correctly and meet legal decibel requirements.

Navigation Lights

Navigation lights are essential for improving visibility and helping other boats identify your position and movement, reducing the risk of collisions at night or in low-light conditions. Familiarize yourself with the required light configurations for different vessel types and regularly check that the bulbs are working.

Visual Distress Signals

Flares or signal flags are crucial for alerting others in an emergency, especially in remote or offshore areas. Keep your flares up-to-date and ensure you know how to use them.

Communication Devices

A marine VHF radio is vital for contacting the Coast Guard or other boats during an emergency. While cell phones can be helpful, you may not always have service, especially if you are far from shore. Program emergency channels into your radio and conduct regular communication checks.

First Aid Kit

Accidents can happen at any time, so a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating injuries until professional help arrives or you can reach the shore. Regularly check the kit for expired items and replenish it with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.

Throwable Flotation Devices

Life rings or similar devices are designed to be thrown to someone already in the water, giving them a better chance of staying afloat until they can be rescued. Keep these devices easily accessible, and ensure everyone on board knows where to find them.

Anchors

Anchors are crucial for stopping your boat from drifting and keeping it away from other vessels or hazardous areas. Choose the correct type of anchor for the seabed in the locations you typically travel.

Bilge Pump or Manual Bailer

A bilge pump helps remove water from the boat, reducing the risk of sinking if a leak occurs or during heavy rain. A manual bailer can also be used but may be more challenging to operate and less efficient.

Charts, a Compass, and GPS

While not legally required, these tools are vital for safe navigation, especially if your electronic systems fail or you find yourself in unfamiliar waters. Always carry a backup paper chart, even if you have a GPS.

Carbon Monoxide Detector

If your boat has an enclosed cabin, carbon monoxide from engine exhaust can accumulate and become deadly. Install carbon monoxide detectors and test them regularly, especially on motorized boats with cabins.

Tool Kit and Spare Parts

Small mechanical issues can be addressed with a basic tool kit, including screwdrivers and wrenches. Duct tape and spare fuses are also handy to have on board. This can prevent you from being stranded or dealing with more extensive mechanical problems.

Safety Harnesses

Safety harnesses can be attached to the cleats or tie-offs on your boat to secure each person onboard, reducing the risk of falling overboard during rough seas or stormy conditions.

Lightning Grounding Protection System

Consider investing in a lightning grounding protection system to protect your boat and its occupants from lightning strikes. This system dissipates the electricity into the water instead of through your boat, reducing the risk of damage and personal injury.

Dock or Boat Lift Lines

Reinforce your key boat lift or dock lines by doubling them up. This ensures a backup in case one line fails, reducing the risk of losing control of your boat.

Other Considerations

• Remove canvas covers and tarps to reduce wind resistance and the chance of your boat being pulled by the storm.
• Disconnect power cords and electronics to safeguard against power surges.
• Close windows and securely fasten latches to prevent water from flooding the cabin during a storm.
• Slow down your boat during rough seas to maintain control and reduce the risk of losing steering.
• Steer your boat at a 45-degree angle toward the docking area to avoid being swamped by waves.

How to secure a boat in the water

Securing a boat during a storm is crucial to protecting it from the elements. Here are some detailed instructions on how to secure a boat in the water:

Before the Storm

• Stay up to date with weather forecasts and warnings.
• If possible, move your boat to a safer location, such as a marina with storm-rated infrastructure or a sheltered bay.
• Ensure your boat is securely tied to the dock with strong, thick mooring lines. Tie to as many points as possible to distribute the load and prevent excessive strain on any individual line.
• Protect your lines where they rub against surfaces with chafe guards and protectors.
• Use longer lines to account for tidal surges and rising water levels.
• Secure or remove any non-essential equipment or loose items that could be blown away or cause damage.
• Remove sails, biminis, and any other canvas items that could catch the wind.
• Use extra fenders to protect your boat from hitting the dock or other boats during the storm.
• Close seacocks and hatches to prevent water ingress.
• Seal hatches, windows, and doors tightly to avoid water inundation.
• Ensure bilge pumps are working and batteries are charged. Consider a backup power source in case of electricity failure.

During the Storm

• Stay calm and focus on safety. Prioritise the well-being of everyone on board.
• Keep a steady course to prevent the boat from broaching or being swamped.
• Avoid turning broadside to the waves, as this can make the boat vulnerable to capsizing.
• Be prepared to deploy sea anchors or drogues to stabilise the boat and prevent excessive drifting.
• Continuously assess the boat's condition and your surroundings, and be ready to adjust your plan accordingly.

After the Storm

• Check for damage to your boat and the surrounding area.
• Document any damage with photos, especially in areas that are most affected.
• Contact your boat insurance company to report a claim and explain the damages or losses.
• Remove personal items and equipment from the boat to prevent looting and further loss.
• Clean any debris, sand, water, or dirt from the boat to prevent mould, mildew, and water damage.
• "Pickle" your machinery and engine by flushing with freshwater and then replacing it with diesel fuel or kerosene.

How to prepare a boat for a hurricane

Preparing your boat for a hurricane is essential to ensure your safety and minimise damage. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prepare your boat for an incoming hurricane:

Before the Hurricane

Firstly, if your boat is trailerable, remove it from the water and transport it to a safe location, ideally somewhere elevated and away from trees, wires, or other hazards. If you cannot move your boat, ensure that it is securely berthed in a marina. Double all lines and rig cross-spring lines fore and aft, attaching them high on pilings to account for tidal rise or storm surges.

Next, you should remove all covers, canvas, and any gear stored on the deck, including small motors, fuel containers, and sails. Close all through-hull valves, except for automatic bilge drains, and ensure all batteries are fully charged. Turn off all electrical equipment, except for automatic bilge pumps, and close and secure all doors, windows, and hatches.

During the Hurricane

It is important to emphasise that you should not stay onboard during a hurricane. Winds can exceed 100 mph, and tornadoes are often associated with these storms.

After the Hurricane

After the hurricane has passed, exercise caution when returning to your boat. Check for downed electrical wires, leaking gas, and propane. Inspect dock lines and mooring pendants, and ensure there are no submerged objects or debris in the water before getting underway.

General Hurricane Season Preparation

In addition to the above instructions, there are several measures you can take to prepare for hurricane season in general:

• Ensure your boat is well-equipped with safety items, including first aid kits, a radio, and USCG-approved life preservers.
• Invest in a lightning grounding protection system to protect against lightning damage and personal injury.
• Keep up to date with weather forecasts and be aware of hurricane watches and warnings.
• If you have a floating dock, ensure proper installation and consider pairing it with an anchoring system for added security.
• Regularly inspect and maintain your dock, making any necessary repairs.
• Consult local regulations and guidelines for specific instructions on hurricane preparation.
• If you store your boat at a marina, stay informed about their hurricane protocol and any requirements for boat removal.
• Keep your boat license, registrations, and insurance up to date, and clearly display any required decals.
• Create and maintain an inventory of all items on your boat, including personal belongings, and consider photographing or videotaping the boat and its contents.
• Understand your responsibilities and liabilities by reviewing your lease or rental agreement with the marina or storage facility.
• Maintain a list of key contacts, including your marina, emergency towing providers, and your insurance agent.

Frequently asked questions