Are YOU prepared?
With Cyclone Alfred just around the corner, we want all of our clients, not just the SE Qld clients to be prepared for severe weather.
Preparation is key to protecting your vessel in the event of severe weather or cyclones so, if you haven’t already it’s now time to plan, prepare and take action. Every vessel is different and whether it’s in a marina, on a mooring or a trailer YOU need to have a plan that helps protect your vessel.
No matter where or how your vessel is berthed, moored or trailered having it insured is a critical issue. Usually when severe weather is on its way many people panic and try to get insurance but, in most cases it’s too late!
Ensure your workers all know and understand your Severe Weather Plan (or what you call it) and seek advice from the manager if you’re unsure about any part of it. Just a couple of points:
That just a few obvious pointers to get you started.
Ensure you follow your marina’s Severe Weather Plan (or whatever they call there’s) and if they don’t have one speak to the manager and seek their advice if necessary BUT remember the onus is on you as the owner to ensure your vessel is safe and prepared for a severe weather event.
Most marina’s will have their staff assist where possible but remember that they have a lot to do in preparing the marina for severe weather and cannot devote all of their time to you or your vessel.
Double up on lines and ensure they are secured properly ensuring the tie off points are strong enough and use rubber or other material to cover the lines at contact points to prevent chafing.
Ensure all scuppers are clear and will allow water to drain efficiently. Check all windows, portholes, doors and hatches are closed and secured. Ensure all LPG bottles are tuned OFF.
Strip bimini tops, covers and sails or any other items that can be blow away. Close fuel valves and ensure your batteries are fully charged to ensure bilge pump operation.
Plug or close off engine room vents and breathers using plugs or rags. Disconnect shore power. Apply duct tape in a criss-cross pattern on large windows, doors and hatches where possible.
If as part of the marina’s severe weather plan they require you to relocate your vessel out of the marina then contact the local Marine Rescue organisation or Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to find out where the nearest designated safe anchorages are, and any cyclone plans that may be in place.
You’ll then have to decide on the safest anchorage for your vessel then relocate it and then anchor. When anchoring ensure you have enough scope on your anchor chain or line, if possible use up to double the normal scope for the depth of water.
Double the lines and use rubber or other materials on contact points to prevent chafing.
Ensure all scuppers are clear and will allow water to drain efficiently. Check all windows, portholes, doors and hatches are closed and secured. Apply duct tape in a criss-cross pattern on large windows, doors and hatches.
Strip bimini tops, covers and sails or any other items that can be blow away. Close fuel valves and ensure your batteries are fully charged to ensure bilge pump operation.
Ensure all LPG bottles are turned OFF.
Plug or close off engine room vents and breathers using plugs or rags.
If time permits relocate your vessel to an area away from the weather event. No time to relocate it then ensure it is located away from trees or loose objects.
Where possible and if practical remove the outboard then all safety equipment, radios, sounders and other removable or valuable items.
Remove bimini and any covers. Secure it to the ground with 24mm rope or chain if possible to a solid and secure object available or remove it from the trailer.
For outboard powered vessels you can half fill them with water but do not do this for vessels with stern drives or inboard motors.
If you’re leaving your vessel on a trailer you can half fill it with water but before doing that place wooden blocks between the frame and the axle on each wheel. Partially deflate the tyres.
Our recommendation is if you’re vessel is going to be on anchor deploy 2 anchors where possible which are set at different angles to distribute the load and increase holding power. Ensure your anchor line and/or chain is heavy enough. Most importantly ensure there is enough slack in lines or chains to accommodate rising water levels and storm surge but not so much that allows the boat to drift significantly.
The potential effects of this severe weather event (cyclone) is a great example of why must have a severe weather plan for your vessel or marina. If you don’t already have one feel free to contact our office for advice and assistance.
You cannot plan severe weather, but you can plan for it!
With the impending arrival of Cyclone Alfred this week, please do not hesitate to reach out to Wayne directly if you have any questions, issues or concerns!
