Boaters need to know how to prepare for hurricane season

Aug 28, 2023

BoatUS helped Southern California boaters prepare for Hurricane Hilary with free online resources including how-to videos, storm-planning guides and more (credit: Amy Beth Krisanda)

The Boat Owners Association of The United States, BoatUS sent this valuable information just ahead of the arrival of Hurricane Hilary in Southern California early Monday morning August 21. The message was that recreational boat owners must prepare now to help prevent damage to their boats, according to Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS). The national boating organization with more than 70,000 members in the Golden State offered time-tested tips and free hurricane-preparation information available at BoatUS.com/Hurricanes.

With nearly 40 years of experience in recreational boat hurricane preparedness, BoatUS offers these six hurricane-preparation tips:

• Owners of trailerable vessels should consider removing their boats from the water and storing ashore, away from trees.
• For larger boats, check your insurance for “Hurricane Haulout” coverage which may help foot the bill to get the boat safely out of harm’s way. GEICO policies offered by BoatUS pay for up to half of the cost (up to $1,000) to remove a vessel and store ashore.
• If you must leave your boat in a slip, ensure lines are in good condition and consider adding extra lines, fenders and chafe protection.
• Remove windage such as Bimini tops or other wind-catching canvas, and secure or remove sails and deck furniture.
• Ensure hatches and doors are secure, deck scuppers are clear, and heavy rains have a way to easily exit the boat.
• Go to BoatUS.com/Hurricanes to learn more on how to prepare for Hilary. Available for free are a BoatUS Magazine “Hurricane Preparations Guide,” “Hurricane Preparation Worksheet,” and a “Guide for Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes.” A video playlist includes nine hurricane-preparation videos making it easy to understand the steps to take.

Go to BoatUS.com/Hurricanes for more.