Tips For Securing Your Boat

East End during Hurricane Igor, Sept. 20, 2010

The list below is from the Bermuda Government Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO).

• Take all trailers and small vessels out of the water.
• Remove boat plugs or add weight to smaller boats by filing the boat up to half-way with water. Filling it all the way could cause damage.
• Flatten the trailer tires.
• If radio equipment can be removed, take it out. Remove outboard motor and anything that could blow away.
• Store boats and trailers inside if possible.
• If boat must remain outdoors, lash both boat and trailer down with heavy rope or chains anchored to the ground and away from objects that could fall on them.
• Support the trailer axle and prevent the trailer from rolling by placing blocks against each wheel.
• If your boat must remain in the water, tie it together with other boats, at the bows and sterns, separated by protective bumpers.
• Do not tie boats parallel to the shore as waves often capsize or beach vessels in this position.
• Under no circumstances should you go out in storm conditions to check your boat.
• Do not venture out to sea as long as there is an advisory or while hurricane watch or warning is in force.