Boat Docking In The Lowcountry: Hurricane Season Safety

Hurricane season in the Lowcountry poses a serious threat to boats and boat owners. With the potential for high winds, heavy rain, and storm surges, it is critical to know how to protect your boat. The best option is to relocate your vessel out of the storm area, but this may not always be possible. In that case, there are several preventative measures you can take to minimise damage. This includes removing loose items, securing essential documents, turning off electrical systems, and more. It is also important to consider the safety of your dock, as floating docks are particularly vulnerable to hurricanes.

Haul your boat out of the water

Hauling your boat out of the water is the best way to protect it during a hurricane. If you have the option, storing your boat on dry land is the safest option. This can be done at a marina that offers haul-out services or by trailering your boat and storing it somewhere inland.

If you plan to haul your boat out of the water at a marina, it's important to make arrangements in advance. Many marinas have size limits for the boats they can accommodate, so be sure to check with the marina ahead of time. It's also a good idea to have your boat hauled out well before the arrival of tropical storm-force winds.

If you decide to trailer your boat, make sure your trailer is in good condition and inspect your tires, bearings, and axle. When trailering your boat, tie it down securely with lines from all angles and use heavy blocks to keep it in place. If possible, store your trailered boat somewhere that is well protected from the wind and potential flooding. Avoid parking under trees, as falling branches can cause damage.

Whether you use a marina or a trailer, it's important to take steps to secure your boat once it's out of the water. Use heavy-duty straps or nylon lines to tie your boat down, especially if you're in an area that may experience high winds or storm surges. Ensure that your boat is blocked up securely and won't be able to roll or topple over.

In addition to hauling your boat out of the water, there are several other steps you should take to prepare it for a hurricane:

• Remove all detachable equipment, such as radios, sails, cushions, and dinghies.
• Lash down anything that can't be removed, such as wheels, tillers, and booms.
• Turn off the boat's electrical system and remove the battery.
• Wrap protective coverings around your lines to prevent chafing.
• Seal off all windows, doors, and hatches.
• Shut off your boat's fuel lines.

Store your boat on dry land

Storing your boat on dry land is a great way to protect it from hurricanes and storms. Here are some tips to help you prepare your boat for storage on dry land:

• Plan ahead: The key to protecting your boat from hurricanes is to prepare well in advance. Inspect your boat, trailer, and home, and create an emergency plan for your family.
• Secure important documents: Keep your essential documents, such as insurance policies, inventory lists, and contact information, in a safe location on dry land.
• Prepare your boat: Turn off the electrical system, remove the battery, and take out any detachable equipment to prevent damage. Lash down anything that can't be removed, such as wheels, tillers, and booms.
• Choose a storage location: Look for a dry storage facility that offers protection from the elements and potential water-related issues. Consider factors such as accessibility, price, and the facilities offered.
• Protect your boat: Wrap protective coverings around your lines to prevent chafing, and seal off all windows, doors, and hatches.
• Follow insurance recommendations: Some insurance providers may require you to haul out your boat during hurricanes or charge more for boats kept in the water. Check with your insurance provider to ensure you are taking the necessary steps.
• Use straps and jackstands: To secure your boat on dry land, use straps to tie it down to embedded eyes or heavy concrete runners. For smaller boats, consider using jackstands, with at least three or four on each side for boats under 30 feet, and five or six for larger boats.
• Consider the location: If possible, store your boat in an area that is not prone to flooding or strong winds. Avoid parking under trees, and choose a location that allows you to secure your boat from all four sides.
• Maintain your boat: Storing your boat on dry land gives you the opportunity to inspect, maintain, and upgrade it. Regular maintenance will help increase your boat's lifespan and ensure a great boating season.
• Prevent water ingress: Ensure that your boat is properly sealed to prevent water from entering the bilge, which can cause damage and even sink your boat.

Secure your boat to a trailer

Securing your boat to a trailer is a crucial step in protecting it from hurricanes. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your boat is safely secured:

Choose a Safe Location:

Select a storage location that is away from potential flood zones and falling objects like trees or fences. Ensure the area is spacious enough to manoeuvre and secure the trailer.

Prepare the Boat:

Before placing the boat on the trailer, remove any loose items such as cushions, antennas, and electronics. Store these items securely to prevent them from causing damage during the storm.

Position the Boat:

Place the boat on the trailer and ensure it is properly centred and balanced. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for correct positioning and weight distribution.

Secure the Boat to the Trailer:

Use strong straps or ropes to tie down the boat to the trailer. Secure the boat from multiple points, including the bow, stern, and midship. Ensure the straps are tight and double-check all knots.

Chock the Trailer:

Use wheel chocks or blocks to prevent the trailer from rolling. Place them in front of and behind the trailer tyres for added security.

Lower the Trailer Jack:

Lower the trailer jack to the ground and ensure it is securely engaged. This will provide additional stability and prevent the trailer from moving.

Remove the Drain Plug:

If your boat has a drain plug, consider removing it to prevent water accumulation. This is especially important if there is a possibility of flooding or heavy rain.

Final Checks:

Before the hurricane arrives, conduct a final inspection. Ensure all lines are secure, the trailer is chocked, and the boat is safely tied down. Check the weather and storm surge predictions and make any necessary adjustments.

Securing your boat to a trailer is a crucial step in protecting it from damage during a hurricane. By following these instructions, you can minimise the potential for harm and ensure your boat weathers the storm safely. Remember to always put safety first and never hesitate to evacuate if the situation becomes dangerous.

Protect your boat with insurance

Boat insurance is an important consideration for boat owners, especially those in hurricane-prone areas. While it may not be possible to prevent a hurricane, you can take steps to protect your boat and mitigate potential damage. Here are some ways insurance can help:

• Understand your policy: Review your insurance policy to know what is covered in the event of a hurricane. Some policies may require certain protective measures to be taken for coverage to apply. Understanding your policy beforehand will help you take the necessary steps to secure your boat and ensure compliance with any requirements.
• Keep your insurance up to date: Ensure your boat insurance is current and provides coverage for hurricane-related impacts. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected financially should your boat sustain damage during a hurricane.
• Document and inventory: Create a detailed inventory of all the equipment on your boat. Take photos and videos of your vessel, its contents, and the Hull Identification Number (HIN#). This documentation will be crucial when filing insurance claims after a hurricane.
• Plan ahead: Develop a plan for your boat in the event of a hurricane. This includes deciding whether to keep it on dry land, in a storage facility, or at a marina. If you plan to use a marina, research their hurricane preparedness measures and understand their procedures for hauling and securing boats. Knowing your options ahead of time will help you make quick decisions when a hurricane approaches.
• Protect your boat: Take measures to secure your boat properly, such as using heavy-duty lines, chafing protection, and fenders. Follow guidelines provided by your insurance company or marine professionals to minimize potential damage.
• File claims promptly: If your boat sustains damage during a hurricane, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. Document the damage with photos and videos, and provide detailed information about any lost or damaged items. This will help support your claim and expedite the handling process.
• Consider additional coverage: Depending on your location and specific needs, you may want to explore additional insurance options. For example, some companies offer named-storm haulout coverage, which reimburses a portion of the cost to professionally haul or protect your boat before a named storm.

By incorporating insurance into your hurricane preparedness strategy, you can enhance the protection of your boat and gain peace of mind. Be sure to review your policy regularly, stay up to date with payments, and understand the specific coverage and requirements provided by your insurance carrier.

Prepare your boat's electrical system

Preparing your boat's electrical system is a crucial step in getting your boat hurricane-ready. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your boat's electrical system is secure:

• Turn off the electrical system: Before the hurricane arrives, turn off your boat's electrical system. This will reduce the risk of electrical damage and short circuits during the storm.
• Remove the battery: Take out the battery and store it in a safe, dry place. This will prevent it from getting damaged by water or moisture.
• Charge batteries: If you have backup batteries, make sure they are fully charged and ready to use. This will ensure that your bilge pumps and other essential equipment have a power source during and after the hurricane.
• Shut off electrical devices: Turn off all electrical devices and appliances, except for the bilge pumps. This will conserve energy and reduce the risk of electrical faults.
• Unplug the boat: If possible, unplug your boat from the power pedestal at the dock. This will prevent electrical damage in case the dock's electrical box is exposed to water.
• Close through-hulls: Close all through-hulls, except for the generator's, to prevent water from entering the boat and causing damage.
• Cover electrical components: If possible, cover electrical components and breakers with waterproof covers or plastic sheets to protect them from water damage.
• Check bilge pumps: Ensure that your bilge pumps are functioning properly and are hard-wired, so they continue to operate during power outages.
• Use a snubber: If you have an all-chain rode, consider adding a snubber, preferably made of nylon line. This will help absorb shock and reduce the strain on the anchor rode during the hurricane.
• Consult an expert: If you have any doubts or concerns about your boat's electrical system, don't hesitate to consult a marine electrician or boat maintenance specialist. They can provide expert advice and ensure that your electrical system is hurricane-ready.

By following these steps, you can help protect your boat's electrical system from potential damage during a hurricane and ensure that essential components like bilge pumps remain operational. Remember to also refer to the other guidelines for securing your boat, such as using proper docking techniques, securing loose equipment, and reinforcing your boat lift or cradle.

Frequently asked questions