Please select your home edition
Edition
Super Yachts at boot (newsletter)

Southern California boaters need to prepare now for Hurricane Hilary

by BoatUS 18 Aug 16:18 PDT

With Hurricane Hilary aiming for arrival in Southern California early Monday morning, 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 has time-tested tips and free hurricane-preparation information available at BoatUS.com/Hurricanes.

"While Hilary may be downgraded as she travels northward, the storm's coastal path puts a lot of harbors in the crosshairs. Combined with high winds and rain, the storm could present issues for recreational boat owners," says Scott Croft, BoatUS spokesperson. With nearly 40 years of experience in recreational boat hurricane preparedness, BoatUS offers these six hurricane-preparation tips:

  1. Owners of trailerable vessels should consider removing their boats from the water and storing ashore, away from trees.
  2. For larger boats, Croft says 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.
  3. If you must leave your boat in a slip, ensure lines are in good condition and consider adding extra lines, fenders and chafe protection.
  4. Remove windage such as bimini tops or other wind-catching canvas, and secure or remove sails and deck furniture.
  5. Ensure hatches and doors are secure, deck scuppers are clear, and heavy rains have a way to easily exit the boat.
  6. 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.

Related Articles

7 red towboats go pink in October
To bring breast cancer awareness to the water At any other time of year, the red towing response vessels of the on-water TowBoatUS towing fleet are helping recreational boaters get home after their boats have broken down or run aground. Posted on 28 Sep
What's different about fall boating?
Plus, a deep dive into choosing your winter boat cover from the nonprofit BoatUS Foundation For some boaters, fall is the best time for boating. Summer's steamy days have surrendered to more comfortable temperatures, angling improves, and winds are stronger for sailing. Posted on 22 Sep
Learn how to drive a boat or improve your skills
Affordable, on-water courses for beginners, women at the Annapolis Powerboat Show The Annapolis Powerboat show is a great place to buy a boat. But did you know that you can also learn how to drive a boat - or improve your boating skills? Posted on 9 Sep
BoatUS Foundation receives $10 million NOAA grant
To fund removal of abandoned and derelict vessels Boats end up abandoned or derelict on our nation's coasts for several reasons. Irresponsible owners abandon vessels when they can no longer afford to care for them or pay for their disposal. Posted on 6 Sep
How to prepare a boat for Idalia
Three-step game plan from Boat Owners Association of the United States With Tropical Storm Idalia about to reach hurricane strength, Florida boaters need to consider preparing to minimize or prevent damage to their boats, says Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS). Posted on 28 Aug
Hands-on boating courses in Morehead City
On-the-water powerboat training builds skills - and confidence Remember learning to drive? Behind-the-wheel training has always been an essential part of the experience. And just like on a roadway, your local waterway requires hands-on experience to master. Posted on 27 Aug
California boater expired flare collection events
Program open to City of Oceanside, Port of Los Angeles; Del Norte, Humboldt and Marin County boaters Marine flares are required to be carried aboard recreational boats for emergency signaling. However, because they expire 42 months after manufacture, they need to be replaced about every three seasons of boating. Posted on 25 Aug
Tips to protect yourself while boating in heat
With no end to scorching temps in sight, boaters must be prepared As the country continues to bake under record high temperatures, boaters often head to the water for respite. However, some may be unprepared for what it takes to withstand a high-heat day. Posted on 25 Jul
Calling all Seattle boaters!
Affordable on-water powerboat handling courses now available Nothing boosts confidence aboard your vessel faster than experience. That's why Ahoy Rentals has partnered with the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water to bring powerboat handling courses to Seattle. Posted on 19 Jul
Summer boating season is in full swing
So far, has it been good for you? Summer boating season is in full swing and you've been enjoying your time on the water. Has it all been good so far? Posted on 12 Jul
Marine Resources 2022 - FOOTERMaritimo 2022Mar - S75 FOOTER