MONROE COUNTY EXTENSION: BOAT OWNER’S-THINK AHEAD FOR HURRICANE PREPARATIONS

Shelly Krueger, Florida Sea Grant agent at University of Florida IFAS Monroe County Extension

Following Hurricane Irma, more than 2,600 boats were removed from Florida’s waterways.   Monroe County led the state for number of recreational vessels removed:  1,824 boats!  Sunken boats are not only a substantial loss to the owners but they also cause substantial damage to the environment, and the owner could be liable to replace damaged infrastructure.  Calling a hurricane unpredictable would really be an understatement!  Despite all of the many unknowns and risks to property, when it comes to preparing your boat for a hurricane, having a plan can help keep your boat safe.

Even though there is really no place in the Florida Keys outside of the risk for storm surges, securing your boat on land offers the best protection.  The best place for a boat during a hurricane is out of the water and attached to a trailer and to other fixed objects on land.  There are many reasons this is the best option.  Leaving a boat in the water adds a lot more “what ifs.”  What if the storm surge is higher than the ropes can lift?  What if the ropes are too long and the boat knocks against the seawall, marina pilings, or adjacent boats?   What if heavy rainfall overwhelms the bilge or the bilge pump quits?  What if high winds and waves rock the boat, tipping it over?  It is costly to find and retrieve a sunken boat.

Boats that are not properly secured are at risk for sinking, damaging seawalls and pilings, and the environmental damage when gasoline gets into the water. Furthermore, carefully read the agreement you signed with your marina and or your homeowner’s association – you may be required to remove your boat from the water.  There are professional services, but keep in mind you will not be the only person calling so plan ahead.  Obviously, this is more difficult with larger boats.  For more information on how to secure boat of all sizes, the Boat US website has recommendations and diagrams to secure your boat on land and in the water https://www.boatus.com/hurricanes/boaterprep.asp.  For more information, we are always happy to answer questions at the Monroe County Extension Service, 305-292-4502.

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]