2023 Hurricane Season

STACKS Hurricane Prep

For any questions or assistance with filing a claim, please contact us at 754-212-4459 or office@stacksbrokerage.com.

The first step in your hurricane plan should always be to refer to the plan you submitted when binding your policy. It's crucial that you follow all the steps outlined in your hurricane / windstorm plan. If your policy didn't require a hurricane plan to bind the quote, here are some recommendations:

Before a storm, document how you've secured your vessel with photos, and have a copy of your insurance policy readily accessible. We may be unreachable following a severe storm due to power outages or a high volume of calls. Your policy includes emergency claims numbers to reach the carrier directly. If needed, Stacks can provide these numbers to you at any point—simply call or email our office.

Hurricane Preparation: A well-crafted plan is essential when preparing for a hurricane or named windstorm. Proper preparation not only safeguards your vessel from damage, but many insurance carriers mandate specific actions for compliance with their hurricane or windstorm guidelines. Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy's hurricane requirements. If your vessel is stored in a marina/storage facility, ensure that you're familiar with their policies and remain compliant.

Attaching Lines: Rig crossing spring lines fore and aft tangentially, and double all lines. Attach lines high on pilings to allow for tidal rise, ensuring they won't slip off. Wrap lines twice around pilings, taking care not to overlap. Protect all lines at rough points. Install fenders to shield the boat from rubbing against the dock, pilings, and other boats.

On a Lift: Lower a fixed lift 2 feet, tie the boat as if it were in a slip, then raise the lift to tension the lines. Secure the boat to the lift, protecting all lines at rough points. Remove all movable items, such as canvas, cushions, deck boxes, biminis, isinglass. Secure outside cabinets, drawers, windows, and equipment. Tape shut all exposed drawers and cabinets. If possible, remove the vessel from the lift and place it on a trailer in the yard or further inland.

On a Trailer: Secure your vessel and trailer in a protected location. Block the trailer tires to prevent movement and strap your vessel to the trailer. Secure your boat and trailer with heavy lines to fixed, sturdy objects (such as large trees, utility poles, buildings) for maximum support.

Exterior: Remove all detachable equipment such as canvas, outriggers, radios, cushions, deck boxes, biminis, isinglass. Secure outside cabinets, drawers, windows, and equipment. Tape shut all exposed drawers and cabinets. Seal the seams of all windows and hatches to prevent wind from entering the cabin. Ensure pedestal seats are securely locked.

Securing Engine Room: Cover engine vents to be watertight around the edges. Large diesel exhausts can be closed with inflatable balls or stoppers. Cover generators under open cockpit decks with plastic sheets. Close water intake sea cocks. Plug exhaust outlets with bungs. Tape over fuel and water tank vents. Ensure the batteries are fully charged and leave the bilge pump on automatic.

The best protection for your boat is a well-prepared hurricane plan.