The 2024 hurricane season will soon be upon us, so it is of critical importance for those of us living in hurricane-prone areas to prepare for the worst. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts what could be one of the most active storm seasons in recent memory with a potential of 23 storms of 39 mph or higher with 11 predicted to become hurricanes and five capable of reaching category one, two or three at 111 mph or higher. Given the incredibly destructive force of hurricanes, those of us living in hurricane-prone areas need to take every measure possible to protect, in this case, our floating castles.
Capt. John Ward of Sea Tow Destin and Pensacola has seen his share of hurricanes, and it is this experience that drives his passion for helping others as a tow boat skipper. “As a third-generation captain, I have seen the devastation that a storm can cause,” said Captain Ward. “I’m happy to offer tips for boaters to consider when making their storm plan. There are critical steps to take with each stage of a storm, but most importantly,” he pointed out, “is preparation well in advance.”
To help us develop our own storm action plans, Capt. Ward shares some tips, given our specific location and the type of environment in which we reside. Those of us living near the water will need to deal not only with wind and rain, but also with potentially massive waves crossing onto land to wreak havoc on roads and buildings.
Following is Capt. Ward’s hurricane preparation list:
•Prepare early. Keep in mind that services in the area must prepare too and will shut down in advance of the storm. If boaters depend on the services of others to assist with their vessels, provide them with enough time so they can also help themselves.
•Arrange a prepaid haul-out service for the vessel. Some marinas have waiting lists of more than 150. Boaters most likely will not be able to find a marina to haul out and store a boat a few days before a storm is predicted to make landfall.
•If the boat cannot be hauled out, move it to a “hurricane hole” to ride out the storm. A “hurricane hole” is a spot relatively sheltered from wind and storm surge. That location should be determined long before an impending storm is even a conversation. For the storm plan, be sure to calculate the time and travel to get there and how the vessel will be secured.
•If the boat is stored at a marina, the boater must know and understand the marina management’s storm plan and their obligations
•Know and understand the boat insurance policy and its coverages. Some require a hurricane plan prior to a storm approaching.
•If leaving the boat in its slip, double up all lines so if one breaks, there’s a secondary in place to hold the boat.
•Once the boat is in position to ride out the storm, lower all VHF and radio antennas so they are down. Remove all vinyl windows and Bimini tops.
•Duct tape the deck hatches down. If they are not sealed and if the wind catches, the latch can break and open up, ultimately ruining the interior of the boat.
•Once the storm has passed and the boat is back underway, be mindful of debris. Anything can land in the water, such as trees, refrigerators or cars, becoming an unmarked hazard.
•Have a post-storm plan in place in the event a home dock is displaced or destroyed.