Hurricane Tips

Archie H Schmidt, FSO-PA

I'm sure that you have heard or read about hurricanes and how dangerous
they are. It is always a possibility here in Florida. If you know a
hurricane is approaching your area, prepare your home and your boat for
the worst.

If your boat is easily trailerable, store it ashore, far from the danger
of high water. Secure it to sturdy trees, even anchor it with a strong
anchor and rode (line). Strip off everything that could be torn loose.
Increase the weight of your boat by filling up the fuel tank. If
feasible, fill the boat itself with fresh water. Leave the drain plug in.
Insert wood blocks between the trailer frame and the springs to help
support the extra weight.

If you must keep your boat in the water you have three options:
1. Berth at a dock that has sturdy pilings and offers reasonable shelter
from open water and storm surge. Double up all mooring lines but provide
enough slack so your boat can rise with the tides. Cover all lines with
chafe protector (double neoprene garden hose cut along the side) at
points where the line is likely to wear and attached extra fenders. If
your boat is on a canal, the ideal is to moor it in the middle of the
canal with mooring lines attached to both sides of the canal.
2. Anchor your boat in a protected harbor where the bottom can allow a
good anchor hold. An advantage to anchoring is that the boat can more
easily respond than when it is moored to wind and water changes without
striking docks or other boats. Heavy and extra anchors are needed for
this option and enough line should be on hand to allow a scope (ratio of
length of anchor line to the depth of water measured at the bow) of at
least 10:1 for each anchor. Example: at a depth of 10 feet you will need
100 feet of line.
3. Hurricane holes are ideal locations to moor. These are deep, narrow
coves or inlets that are surrounded by a number of sturdy trees that
block the wind and provide a tie-off for anchor lines. Use anchors and
trees to secure your boat. The best location for hurricane holes is one
far enough inland to avoid the most severe winds and tides, yet close
enough to reach under short notice.
Never stay with your boat. Strip it of anything that can become loose,
including unstepping the mast in sailboats. Boat documents, radios, and
other valuables should be removed from the vessel prior to the storm.
Hurricanes are among the most destructive phenomena of nature. It is not
to be taken lightly. Advance planning cannot guarantee the safety of your
boat. It can, however, improve survivability and is certainly worth the
time and money. Be prepared!
 

SAFE BOATING IS NO ACCIDENT!

NOTICE / DISCLAIMER