Living in areas prone to hurricanes means preparing for the worst. And if you’re a boat owner, this preparation should include steps to keep your boat safe.
Hurricanes can cause severe damage to boats if they are not properly secured or removed from the water. In this article, we’ll provide you with some essential tips for keeping your boat safe during a hurricane. But first, let’s take a look at what we can expect for the 2023 hurricane season.
What to Expect
According to the latest predictions from Colorado State University, the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be “slightly below average,” with 13 named storms and two major hurricanes making landfall.
While this may seem like good news, it’s important to note that even a below-average season can still result in significant impacts from hurricanes. Therefore, be prepared and take proactive measures now to ensure the safety of your family, home, and property such as your boats and RVs.
2023 Atlantic Storm Names
Here’s the list of names for the 2023 hurricane season:
Did your name make the cut? We know it’s important to take these storms seriously, but who doesn’t check the season’s storm names, wondering if their name made the list?
Protecting Your Boat During a Hurricane
Now, let’s dive into some tips for protecting your boat during a hurricane:
- Secure Your Boat: If you decide to keep your boat in the water during a hurricane, make sure you secure it well. Double up your dock lines, add fenders to protect your boat from the dock, and make sure everything is tightly secured.
- Move Your Boat: If possible, move your boat to a secure location such as a hurricane hole, a protected marina, or a dry dock. If you plan to move your boat, make sure you do so well in advance of the storm to avoid long lines and potential damage.
- Remove Important Items: Remove all important items from your boat, including electronics, documents, and any other valuable items. If you’re keeping your boat in the water, make sure to seal all hatches, ports, and doors to prevent water from entering the boat.
- Reduce Windage: Remove any items that can catch the wind, such as sails, canvas, and bimini tops. If you can’t remove them, make sure they are securely fastened to the boat.
- Have a Plan: Have a clear plan in place in case of an emergency. Make sure you know where to go and who to contact in case of damage or injury.
For in-depth details on how to protect your boat during a hurricane, read our blog post on hurricane preparation and safety tips.
SmartPlug will always have your safety and security at the top of our mind. Stay safe this hurricane season and don’t forget to prepare for the worst, just in case.
