It’s a beautiful day on the water, but as you tie your boat to the dock and head back to the house for lunch, you notice something’s not right. Your boat is gone! How could this happen? Boat theft is a common occurrence, but there are some things you can do to minimize your chances of becoming a victim.
There are a few steps that can be taken to help prevent your boat from being stolen from the dock. One of the most important is to make sure that your boat is properly secured to the dock. Many people allow their boat to float freely on the water, which makes it easy for someone to simply push off the dock and steal your boat. If you have a trailer, make sure that the trailer is secured to the boat.
7 Tips to stop boat from being stolen:
There are several ways you can protect your boat from being stolen. You should implement and remember the rules accordingly. Some of them are –
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Keep your boat in sight
If you’re like most boat owners, you probably take great pride in your watercraft and enjoy spending time on the open water lonely or in a group. Unfortunately, boats are also popular targets for thieves. In fact, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, a boat is stolen every 26 minutes in the United States.
There are several things you can do to help keep your boat safe from theft. Be sure to keep an eye on your boat at all times; never leave it unattended for long periods of time. Keep a close eye on the locks and hatches as you enter and exit your boat. If either is not locked or open, it’s vulnerable to being stolen.
If you do see someone suspicious near your boat, don’t hesitate to call the police.
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Install a security system
Installing a security system can be an effective way to deter theft and protect your property. Security systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it is important to choose one that best suits your needs. Some factors to consider when choosing a security system include the size of your home, the amount of coverage you need, and your budget.
Once you have selected a security system, it is important to properly install it. If the system is not installed correctly, it may not work properly or may not be able to detect intruders. Always consult with a professional installer to ensure that your security system is installed correctly.
If you are looking for additional protection against theft, consider adding a fence or gate around your property. A fence can help deter thieves from entering your property, while a gate can keep them from leaving with stolen goods.
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Lock your boat
Boat theft is a big problem, especially during the summer months. Thieves often target boats that are left unlocked, because they’re easy prey. They can steal everything from the motor to the fishing rods, and they can do it in minutes. So don’t make it easy for them – lock your boat every time you leave it unattended.
There are a number of ways to lock your boat, but the most common is with a cable lock. It’s simple, effective, and inexpensive.
A cable lock can be used with a number of different types of boats, but the most common ones are those that are made out of fiberglass or aluminum. You can usually find one of these at any hardware store or marine supply store.
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Get a alarm
When it comes to boat security, an alarm system is one of the most important investments you can make. Boat alarms serve as both a theft deterrent and a way to quickly notify authorities if your boat is ever stolen. There are many different types of alarm systems available, so it’s important to choose the one that is best suited for your needs.
Some alarm systems can be installed by the boater themselves, while others require professional installation. If you’re looking for a basic alarm system that will sound an alarm if someone attempts to steal your boat, there are many affordable options available. More advanced alarm systems can include features such as GPS tracking, which can help authorities locate your boat if it is ever stolen.
No matter what type of alarm system you choose, be sure to test it regularly and keep the batteries fresh.
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Hide your boat
A boat is a big investment, and if it gets stolen, you could be out a lot of money. Not to mention, if your boat is stolen, you’re going to have a hard time getting back out on the open water.
So what can you do to protect your boat? One thing you can do is hide it. If your boat is hidden well, it’s going to be a lot harder for thieves to find it. Try to park your boat in a public place that is well lit. Also, remove all valuables and make sure they aren’t visible from the outside of your boat. Try parking it near a streetlight or the entrance of a secluded area.
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Choose a marina wisely
Boaters need to be aware of the security risks associated with leaving their boats at marinas. Unfortunately, thefts from boats at marinas are all too common. So it’s important to choose a marina that is well-protected and has a good security system in place.
One way to determine whether a marina is safe is to ask about its security measures. The staff at the marina should be able to tell you about their security procedures, such as how they protect the property and how they screen visitors.
You should also check out the surrounding area to see if it’s well-lit and there are plenty of people around. If the area seems unsafe, it’s probably not a good idea to leave your boat there.
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Disable the fuel line
When you’re not using your boat, it’s important to disable the fuel line to prevent anyone from stealing it and taking it for a joyride. There are a few ways to do this. One is to use a plug that screws into the end of the fuel line.
Another is to use a clamp or band that goes around the fuel line and clamps shut. You can also cut the fuel line, but make sure you do so in a way that will still allow you to reattach it when you’re ready to use your boat again.
Does insurance of boat cover stolen boats?
In the event that a boat is stolen, insurance companies will cover the cost of the boat if it is recovered. If the boat is not recovered, then insurance companies will payout the value of the boat to the owner. Boat theft is a common crime, and many insurance companies have specific policies in place for when boats are stolen.
Having insurance on your boat is important in case of theft. It can provide peace of mind knowing that you will be compensated for your loss if your boat is ever stolen. Insurance can also be used to help pay for the repair or replacement of your boat, as well as other costs that may arise in the event of a theft.
You have to discuss with authority ins and outs before taking an insurance.
Related: 7 Recommended when Docking your Boat
Tips to avoid buying stolen boat
If you’re looking to buy a boat, it’s important to be aware of the risk of purchasing a stolen vessel. There are a few steps you can take to help avoid buying a boat that’s been stolen.
- One of the most important things is to get a title and bill of sale from the seller.
- You should also contact the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) to see if the boat has been reported stolen.
- You can also check with local law enforcement agencies to see if they’re investigating any thefts of boats in your area.
- It’s also a good idea to have the boat inspected by a marine mechanic before you buy it.
- And finally, always be suspicious of deals that are too good to be true.
Conclusion
In conclusion, by following the simple tips mentioned in this article, you can help to keep your boat from being stolen from the dock. Make sure to always lock your boat and dock when you are not using them, and be aware of your surroundings.
If you see anything or anyone suspicious, report it to the authorities immediately. Together, we can help to keep our boats and docks safe from thieves.
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