Boat owners encouraged to secure vessels, watch weather before heading out

DOVER (Aug. 25, 2011) – With Hurricane Irene expected to make her presence known by the weekend, the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section and the Delaware Office of Boating Safety are encouraging boaters to take steps to protect their vessels.

If time allows, boat owners are advised to trailer boats and move them to higher ground in an area offering some shelter from high winds if possible. For boats that must remain docked in the water, owners are advised to put on extra lines. Using long lines to accommodate storm surge and pulling the lines fairly taut in multiple directions – like a spider web with the boat caught in the center – helps keep the boat in position and away from pilings.

Owners should also remove parts that can catch the wind, including canvas covers, bimini tops, sails, rigging and dinghies. Loose items or items that can come loose such as antennas and electronics should be stored on land or below decks with doors and hatches closed and secured.

“Last but not least, when bad weather approaches, boat owners should monitor weather reports closely and not be tempted to venture out on the water when high seas, heavy rain and strong winds are predicted,” said Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement.

Vol. 41, No. 329