September Storms spinning on both coasts   Protect your boat during a storm

Hurricanes-Threatening the East Coast and Hawaiian Islands. 
There are several storms spinning along both coasts.
Want to remind our policy holders that most yacht and charter boat policies cover some portion of the cost to haul out and secure your vessel on the hard.  Review your policy and execute your storm plan sooner rather than later.
Now is the time to get your boats secured until the storm passes. As boaters, there is nothing we can do to change severe weather.  We must be prepared and execute a plan for our safety and the safety of your boat and other property.  There is no benefit to chancing it.  When in doubt, haul it out!  Protect the vessel in a safe area, safe from the surge.
If you can trailer your boat:  Be sure to tow the boat with a proper vehicle and haul it to a safer area.  Lash your boat to the trailer and secure your boat with heavy lines to fixed objects.  New lines beat old lines 100% of the time. Trees often fall during storms and probably aren't the best option for securing the vessel.
Non-Trailerable Boats
1. Determine the safest and most realistic haven for your boat and make arrangements to move it there. Be sure to consider whether storm surge could rise into the area.
2. Never leave a boat in davits or on a hydro-lift during a major storm.
3. Secure the boat in the marina berth, moor the boat in a previously identified safe area, or haul the boat to a secure location and strap it down if possible.

Boats Remaining in Marina Berth
1. Double all lines and use lines that have protective coverings that reduce marring of the boats surface whenever possible. Attach lines high on pilings to allow for tidal rise or surge.
2. Install fenders to protect the boat from rubbing against the pier, pilings and other boats.
3. Fully charge the batteries and check to ensure their capability to run automatic bilge pumps for the duration of the storm. Consider backup batteries. Shut off all devices consuming electricity except bilge pumps, and disconnect shore power cables.

FYI-all loose items should be stored, things like: canvas, bimini tops, cushions are typically excluded from coverage during a named storm
Do not stay aboard your vessel during the hurricane.
Find safe shelter with your family
Be Safe
Charter Lakes, your Marine Insurance Specialists