Maryland Marina Storm Preparation

If a tropical storm warning or greater has been issued, our staff will be on duty 24 hours a day until the weather event is over. To receive updated information on conditions, make sure we have your current E-mail address on file.

1. MOORING LINES

  • Adjust mooring lines so the Adjusting End (The Non-Looped End) is tied to the boat cleats.
  • Replace all suspect mooring lines.
  • Double up mooring lines and tie them so they are the same length as originals.
  • Do not install “snubbers” in your mooring lines. They allow too much stretch.
  • Cross stern lines where possible
  • Install spring lines
  • Install chaffing gear on all rub areas
  • Adjust height of lines on mooring poles; they should be tied to dock level.

2. CANVAS & SAILS

  • Remove all sails from spars, especially roller furling head sails.
  • Remove all canvas including bimini tops and dodgers.
  • Install cockpit covers (tonneau covers) if cockpit is not self bailing.

3. CLEAR THE DECKS

  • Remove all loose gear including anchors, life rings, etc.
  • Remove booms or drop them to the deck and lash them securely with chafe gear.
  • Remove small outboard motors and portable fuel tanks.
  • Remove outboard rudders.

4. DINGHIES

  • Remove all dinghies from the boat or water.
  • Inflatable should be deflated and stored.
  • Dinghies in racks should be secured and tagged with your name & phone numbers.

5. DOCK LOCKERS

  • Should be emptied and the lids secured with locks

6. SECURE BOAT

  • Tightly secure all hatches and ports.
  • Remove and plug cowl vents.
  • Unplug all electric lines from boat and dock.
  • Remove garden hoses from water outlets and store inside boat.
  • Shut off thru hulls except scuppers.
  • Face bow of the boat toward the northwest.
  • Lower stern boarding ladders.
  • Secure fenders to boat at critical areas.
  • Secure halyards away from mast.
  • Shut off fuel lines at the tank.
  • Remove all electronics, valuables and important papers.
  • Leave outdrives in up position providing spring lines are installed.

7. BOAT ON TRAILERS

  • Boat and trailer should be staked to the ground (spiral dog stakes are recommended)