SolveYourProblem Article Series: Hurricanes
Hurricane Facts, Tips and Safety Protocols

Boat Protection: Hurricane Tips

It is important to prepare ahead of time for the possibility of a hurricane if you are a boater. This is true whether you operate a pontoon or a sail boat or whether you are a yacht owner, or a speed boat racer. Safety and precaution is important on the water.

One precaution you need to know is how to properly secure your boat. This procedure may be slightly different for different types of boats, but the principle is the same. When the boat is not in use you will want to secure it as much as possible.

In order to properly secure your boat you may want to be aware of some things you should not do. One of those things is to not use the wrong kind of rope - for example clothesline. Also, you should not secure the boat in a way that is un-fastenable so that you can remove the knot of the rope later on.

If you want to make sure your boat is secure, it is a good idea to have at least six dock lines, two bow lines, and two stern lines. The dock lines should be at least two-thirds the length of your boat, and the spring lines should be at least the full length of your boat. The diameter of your line depends upon how large your boat is and how much your boat weighs.

There is no harm in having your dock lines longer than your boat. The most damage is done when the lines are too short. The strength of the line that fastens your boat to your dock (dock line) matters as well.

Nylon is the recommended choice for your dock line - and for some is the only choice. This rope comes in two types. One is three strand twisted, which is also called “laid” line. It is an all-purpose type of rope that stretches which will help absorb shock. It does kink easily, however, so you may want to coil it clockwise to help avoid kinking.

The second type of nylon line is the braided type of line. This kind rarely kinks and is much easier to use on the hands. This type rarely kinks and is much easier on the hands.

Another type of line is called the poly line, which is considered a poor choice of dock lines. This material does not stretch well and it has a very low breaking point, and degrades quickly in the sunlight. This is the biggest reason that the nylon line is preferred.

The other very important point to consider when preparing your boat for a hurricane is to know how to properly tie your line. The amount of knots you use in your tie-offs will determine the amount of strength capacity that your line will give you. Therefore, you will need to avoid them as much as possible.

Generally speaking the only knots a dock line should encounter are those that you tie around cleats or pilings. In addition, you should learn a special technique for tying knots, called marlinspike seamanship.

One other point to remember as well is that good dock lines are expensive, so in order to protect it you will want to use a chafing guard around it. Chafing guards are found in ship stores, or you can make your own out of a garden hose.

In addition to securing your boat correctly to your dock, you will also need good fenders on your boat. This will help prevent more damage than would be ordinary in the event of a hurricane.

These are some of the most important tips about boat security and preparation in case of a hurricane. You will also want to be sure that you are going out in safe waters as much as possible. Always listen to weather reports and make sure you have access to a radio when you are on the water. This will help increase your safety and will help you make sure that you make it to shore in time in case of a sudden weather change.

You can read other articles such as this one to help you further prepare for hurricane survival. Additional tips include what first aid supplies you would need and what types of clothing and personal items you would need in the event of one as well, along with an escape route. Some of these other tips could apply to boaters, so you may want to read the other articles related to hurricanes.

Emergencies and disasters can happen anytime, anywhere without warning. Protect yourself and your family. Click to see valuable emergency preparedness supplies and information. Be ready. Be prepared. I love this website. It's my SolveYourProblem recommendation.

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by SolveYourProblem.com : 2007

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