Marine information
The following preparation and precautionary suggestions are issued as guidelines only for the marine community. Specific plans, characteristics, and the effects of environment and weather should be applied uniquely to every boat.
- Develop a detailed plan of action for your vessel.
- Have a friend or neighbor prepared to act in your absence.
- Consolidate all boat records, insurance policies, photos and equipment inventories and keep in a safe place.
DO NOT remain on your boat during severe weather
Trailerable boats
Boats should be lashed to the trailer with blocks placed between the frame members and the axle inside each wheel. Deflate tires half way and chock them. Also consider filling the boat one-third full of water to hold it down. Use heavy lines to secure the boat to fixed objects in four directions, if possible, and use ground screws.
Non-trailerable boats
- Secure the boat in a marina berth, safe harbor or haul the boat. Never leave boats in davits or on a hydro-lift!
- Double all lines. Rig crossing-spring lines fore and aft. Attach lines high on pilings to allow for tidal rise or surge. Use nails to insure lines will not slip off and select the sturdiest and tallest pilings.
- Prevent rope chafing by wrapping tape, rags and rubber hoses around lines at potential rough points.
- Check for strong backing plates on all cleats, winches, chocks, bitts and bollards.
- Ensure automatic bilge pumps are strong and batteries are charged fully.
- Enhance the watertight integrity of the boat both below and above the water line. Seal windows and doors and hatches with duct tape as necessary. Shut sea cocks and plug sink drains and unvalved through-hull fittings.
- Have on hand additional lines, fenders, fender boards, anchors, ground screw anchors and chafing gear.
- Strip sails, tie off sails and/or de-rig and secure all deck gear.
- Rehearse your planned vessel movement to include an actual visit to your mooring/ anchoring location. Use a minimum of two and preferably three anchors of the Bruce or CQR variety.
- Keep firefighting and lifesaving equipment handy and in good order.
Note: All bridges will be locked down when winds reach a sustained speed of 39 miles per hour or a land evacuation is ordered. Before a complete lockdown is executed, drawbridges will be raised on the hour for 15 minutes when boat traffic is present.
Marine radio frequencies
Marine telephone numbers
- Marine emergencies - 9-1-1
- Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission: (888) 404-3922
- U.S. Coast Guard (Ponce Inlet): (386) 258-8733
- Volusia County Sheriff (Aviation/Marine Division): (386) 239-6542
- 24-hour weather message: (386) 252-8000
- U.S. Customs Service (Port Canaveral): (321) 783-2066
- National Hurricane Center: (305) 229-4400
Bridges
When an evacuation is ordered, all bridges will be locked down when winds reach a sustained speed of 39 miles per hour or a land evacuation is ordered. Before a complete lock-down, drawbridges will be raised on the hour for 15 minutes when boat traffic is present.
Because of the disruption of bridge operation, boaters must be prepared to move early to seek safe harbor.
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