Well, here we are - facing the potential of severe weather by the end of the weekend. Living in South Florida means we should always be prepared for not just brutal storms but tropical storms and hurricanes.
Most of us have a hurricane preparedness checklist for our homes and emergency plans in place but do you have a rock solid plan in place for your boat or yacht? We have a list of items that you can use to assist you in getting your marine vessel ready for South Florida Hurricanes beforehand and what you can do after the storm passes.
While each plan will be unique given the type of boat you have and where it is berthed we have a general checklist that get you started on preparation.
First and foremost, if you live on your boat please make other arrangements to stay elsewhere. Riding out a storm on a boat or yacht is not ideal!!
Is your vessel berthed in a Marina?
If so, familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your lease or rental agreement. There will be several clauses that pertain to your responsibilities and liabilities.
Be sure to have a contact number for the harbor master and keep it with your official documents.
Official Documents
Prior to the storm be sure you have a recent photo of your vessel. Capture all sides - the photos may be necessary for insurance purposes if you need to file a claim with your insurance company.
In addition to you personal records that you keep safe during a storm be sure to also have Your HIN (Hull Identification Number) recorded.
Secure your insurance policy along with your personal records.
Have an inventory of equipment.
Physical Preparation of your Boat or Yacht:
Remove all items not permanently affixed. Life jackets, radios, dinghies, antennas, sails, paddle boards, coolers, dodgers and biminis, portable fuel, cockpit covers, miscellaneous items.
Tie down/Lash down items that can not be removed. Tillers, wheels, and booms.
Ensure your battery is FULLY charged.
Turn off the all unnecessary electrical items. EXCEPT BILGE PUMPS
Consider procuring back-up batteries.
Seal all hatches, windows and doors
Wrap ropes securing your boat with protective covering to protect your vessel from chafing where the rope touches the boat.
Shut off fuel lines.
Anchor with multiple anchors if possible. - Ensure your anchor lines are at least 10xs the water depth. This will help counteract a storm surge.
Plug exhaust pipes - this will prevent water from flooding your engine.
Install fenders to protect your boat should it hit a dock, another boat, pier, etc.
Once the storm has passed and it is SAFE TO VISIT the marina. Take pictures! Even if there appears to be no damage - take pictures! Speak with the harbor master to see if there are any instructions to be followed.
If you need to submit a hull inspection report to your insurance company please let us know. We can perform and underwater dive inspection once it is safe to enter the water and prepare a report for you to submit. Regardless of damage that you may or MAY NOT see above the water line you definitely want to get an inspection of your vessel's bottom. Storm surge can do serious damage to the bottom of a boat that is not visible unless an underwater inspection is done.
Stay safe, be prepared and call us if you need us!
DiverXTRM Crew
If you are looking for an Underwater Dive Team in South Florida for maintenance and underwater cleaning for your vessel then give us a call! We'd love to get you on our schedule for routine cleanings.
Be sure to check out our website DiverXTRM for all the services that we offer. You can also give us a call at 561-408-8042.
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