When you hear the phrase ‘boat safety,’ chances are you’re thinking about making sure your boat has no leaks or storm damage, is ocean safe and well maintained. Or you may consider the skills necessary to operate your water craft. But today, boat safety also refers to the secure storage of your vessel, and the use of marine security systems to keep your property from being damaged or stolen.

Let’s start with a look at boat storage. For those of you who store your vessel away from the water, boats should be placed in a locked garage or boat storage facility that is also securely locked. If you keep your boat on a trailer, always utilize a trailer hitch lock. And, be sure to park your boat off the street, in a location that makes it difficult to steal. Another good idea: place an item such as cinder blocks or other equipment behind the trailer so that there is an obstacle for any thief attempting to hook your trailer up to their own vehicle. You can also remove some of your trailer’s tires, to further slow a thief. A sturdy security chain and locking system can also be used to attach your boat to an permanent object – tree, dock or garage. Continue reading Boat Safety: Storage and Marine Security Installation→