19 Sep How to Keep Your Boat Safe this Fall

There are many different storage options you can choose when storing your boat this upcoming fall. We want to make sure you are up to date on the necessary preparations for your boat. For these reasons, it’s important to get your boat ready for the cool autumn months. Even if you don’t live in a place where the water freezes and there are severe cold temperature follow these tips that will keep your boat in the best condition this fall and winter. We want to make sure your boat is ready for action after an extended period of storage.

Start With a Clean Boat. A clean boat will reduce the work necessary when the time comes to take it out again. Wash the top sides, bottom and deck and clean all hardware and trim. Waxing the boat is also another great option.

Change the Oil. Every end-of-season checklist should include a healthy dose of changing the oil. Change the engine oil on all aspects of the boat.

Remove and store items on the boat. Make sure you have room to store all of your belonging during the off season. These items can contribute to the gathering of dirt and moisture in your boat’s storage areas. Get those life jackets, dock lines, fire extinguishers, flares, fenders, ski ropes and the rest of your gear out of the boat and store them indoors over the fall/winter.

Store in a Marina Warehouse. The best option is to store your boat in an enclosed, climate-controlled facility. However, this is not always practical in everyone’s case. If your boat will be stored outdoors, make sure you have a strong cover that can protect your boat during the cooler months.

When thinking about storing your boat this fall also reconsider your boat insurance option plans. Boat insurance is not a mandatory coverage unless you have a bank loan that requires it, but given its affordability and the potential cost of losses, why wouldn’t you want to protect your investment. With boat insurance, you’re covered for accidents that happen or out of the water. You’re also covered for natural disasters that might damage to your boat. Typically boat insurance covers physical damage to our boat; personal property that Is on your boat; liability insurance to protect you should a person be injured or property damaged while on your boat, and towing and assistance should your boat become inoperable.

Use these general guidelines to help prepare and store your boat this upcoming fall/winter. While these tips will certainly get you started, there will be other checklists personalized for your boat. Your boat and engine owner’s manuals can offer other specific recommendations for fall/winter preparation. If you have questions regarding your boat insurance or storage give us a call at 704-821- 4460 or connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pintrest, and Google Plus.