Burglary
Prevention For Your Boat
by: Robert Young
Thieves are always on the
lookout for easy targets. Don't make yourself an easy target.
Always follow these simple steps.
- Never leave anything valuable on display, however small and
insignificant it may seem. Thieves steal first and think about
value later.
- Don't leave anything loose in the cockpit or on deck.
- Don't leave your engine key in the ignition - always take it
with you.
- Keep your boat keys separate from your engine keys.
- Always keep your boat locked when no one is on board, even for
a short time.
- Use strong padlocks or rim locks on all your hatches, entry
points, and cockpit lockers.
- Constantly check and improve the security on your boat. It's a
good idea to fit an alarm and use a visible sticker to say that
one is fitted.
- Make sure your cockpit lockers can be properly locked and
check that your main hatch and fore-hatch are strong.
- Think about having a strong box down below. If you don't think
something is secure, get it fixed.
IMPROVE YOUR SECURITY
Once you've tied up alongside, always do a quick security check
before going ashore.
Always:
- Lock anything valuable out of sight in a strong locker secured
by a strong padlock.
- Lock up emergency money away from other valuables.
- Keep your curtains closed so that no one can look in.
- Keep unused ropes, fenders, and other items out of sight in
your cockpit, lockers, and cupboards - and always lock them.
- Make sure that your life raft and outboard motor are secure as
these are valuable and attractive to boat thieves.
- When you go ashore from a dinghy, always remove your oars or
paddles, rowlocks, or pump, and secure the dinghy with a strong
chain and padlock.
- If you are the victim of boat theft, call the police
immediately and tell the harbormaster or boatyard manager. Check
to make sure that your boat is still seaworthy and hasn't been
badly damaged.
- If you can, check that neighboring boats haven't been broken
into as well.
- Get to know other boat owners in your marina and work together
to keep the marina secure.
You Can Do The Following:
- Keep an eye on other boats, as well as your own.
- Report any strangers at the marina to the harbormaster or
yardmaster.
- Don't give your marina access card or key to other people.
- Never tell anyone else the access code to the marina.
- Don't let strangers into the marina, however genuine they may
seem.
- Keep the marina gate closed at all times.
About The Author
Robert Young is the owner and editor of Urban Safety Supplies
and Hi-Tech Hidden Cameras. Stay safe! Visit
http://www.urbansafetysupplies.com for all your
security item needs. Stun guns, pepper spray, personal alarms,
and more! Also visit
http://www.hittechhiddencameras.com and see our hidden
cameras, spy, and surveillance equipment.
mail@urbansafetysupplies.com