The Atlantic hurricane season, spanning from June to November, brings heightened risks for boat owners. Preparing in advance is crucial to protect your boat from the severe weather conditions hurricanes can bring. Boat Safe offers a comprehensive checklist to help boat owners safeguard their vessels and valuables during hurricane season.

Boat Securing

• Move the boat to a safe location away from the hurricane's path if possible.
• Use double lines and add extra fenders for protection against dock damage.
• Remove any non-essential equipment or sails.

Remove Valuables 

• Take out any valuable items from the boat and store them safely on land.
• Remove electronics, important documents, and personal belongings.

Insurance Check 

• Review your boat insurance policy to ensure it covers hurricane damage.
• Consider adding additional coverage, if necessary.

Hurricane Plan 

• Develop a detailed plan for how you will prepare the boat and where you will go if evacuation is necessary.
• Share your plan with family and friends.

Emergency Kit 

• Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential items such as water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and tools.

Check Bilge Pumps 

• Ensure bilge pumps are in working order and have a backup plan in case of power failure.

Stay Informed  

• Monitor weather updates and heed evacuation orders from local authorities.
• Have a reliable means of communication, such as a marine VHF radio or satellite phone.

Post-Storm Inspection 

• After the storm passes, inspect the boat for damage and make any necessary repairs promptly.
• Document any damage for insurance purposes.

By following these guidelines and staying proactive, boat owners can significantly reduce the risk of damage to their vessels during hurricanes. Remember, early preparation is key, so don't wait until the last minute to secure your boat and belongings.

Stay safe and prepared!

 

 

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute and is not intended to take the place of legal or risk management advice. Readers should consult their own counsel or other representatives for any such advice. Any and all third-party websites or sources referred to herein are for informational purposes only and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Intact Insurance Group USA LLC (“Intact”). Intact hereby disclaims any and all liability arising out of the information contained herein. 

Intact Insurance Specialty Solutions, Intact Ocean Marine, and National Marine Underwriters are marketing brands for the insurance company subsidiaries of Intact Insurance Group USA LLC. Our solutions are backed by the financial strength of Atlantic Specialty Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Intact Financial Corporation (TSX:IFC), rated A.M. BEST A+ | FITCH AA | MOODY'S A2. 

Coverages may be underwritten by one of the following insurance companies: Atlantic Specialty Insurance Company, a New York insurer; Homeland Insurance Company of New York, a New York insurer; Homeland Insurance Company of Delaware, a Delaware insurer; OBI America Insurance Company, a Pennsylvania insurer; or OBI National Insurance Company, a Pennsylvania insurer. Each of these insurers maintains its principal place of business at 605 Highway 169 N, Plymouth, MN 55441.