It is mid-May. Less than a month to go before the hurricane season begins. Is your speed boat ready to weather the storm?
Before the hurricane season begins, buy items that will help you prep your speed boat efficiently like duct tapes, ropes, trash bags and rug.
Prepare your trailer. Check the tires and tire pressure and make sure that it is working and rolling properly. In case your boat needs to be removed from the water, you don’t have to scramble and fix your trailer when the wind begins to strengthen.
Create a checklist of things to do in case you need to secure your boat or take if out of the water. Also, list down the items that must be removed from the boat in the event of a hurricane.
When a hurricane warning is issued, usually 36 to 48 hours before landfall, the best thing to do is to remove your boat from the water. Secure your boat to the trailer and move it to your garage or as far inland as possible away from the direction of the hurricane.
When moving is not possible, remove the boat from the water, put it on top of the trailer and anchor it good into the ground. A good way to secure your trailer into the ground is using steel rebar. Some may suggest tying your trailer to the tree but with hurricane winds that can topple even the mightiest tree down, it might not be a good idea. Anchor the boat away from power lines, trees and old structures that might fall on it. Place blocks between the axle and frame of the trailer wheels and remove the air from its tires.
Use heavy strap to secure the boat to the trailer. It is also to add weight to the boat. Place fresh water on the areas possible. Cover your boat using thick canvas to prevent damages from flying branches and other debris that may hit your boat.
If removing the boat from water is not your option, secure your boat by tying it high on pilings to give way for the rising water. Run extra line and use double tie on every knot. Failure to do this can severely damage your boat especially if the water level rises more than your rope’s allowable length. Face the bow of your boat on the direction where the wind is coming from so that it can better ride the waves. Cut boat the fuel lines and the batteries to avoid oil spill. Place some rubber moldings around the boat to prevent scratches, dents, and holes.
Photograph the interior and exterior of your boat before the hurricane. Remove everything from loose objects to cushions and fabrics. Refer to the list you have created prior to start of the hurricane season.
Openings must be secured to prevent wind-driven rain from sipping through. Instrument panel must be covered as well with plastic and duct tape.
After the hurricane, assess the damage of your boat. Do not move anything. Take some pictures first and contact your insurance company to file a claim.
Leaking hull must be weathered immediately. Clean your boat right away to prevent rotting and avoid mold and mildew build up. In case your boat sank, do not contact a salvage company without the approval of your insurance claim.
