If you own a boat in a hurricane-vulnerable coastal area, you need a boat hurricane plan. Assembling a hurricane preparation kit before a storm looms on the horizon will allow you to focus your time and effort on preparing your boat when a hurricane watch is issued.
Before hurricane season begins, make a hurricane plan that includes purchasing items that will help you prep your boat quickly and efficiently. Here are a few basics I suggest for your boat’s hurricane preparation kit:
For All Boats
Duct tape
Plastic
Rags
Plywood
Trash bags to easily remove items from your boat
Hurricane checklist
For Moored Boats
Add these items to the items for all boats if your boat is moored:
Extra mooring lines a 1/4” to double the size of your normal line. Purchase new line and store outside of the marine environment to ensure the integrity of the line. Use this line for storm preparation only.
Chafing gear made of garden or fire hose, leather, or other reinforced plastic.
Extra fenders or old tires
Extra line, tie straps, or bungy cords to lash loose items down
For Trailered Boats
Add these items to the items for all boats if your boat is trailered:
Blocks for your boat trailer
Tie straps or heavy rope to tie your boat to the trailer
Grounds hooks or steel rebar and chains or tie straps to anchor your trailer to the ground
