Boating Tip: Boat and trailer security checklist

If you are a boat owner, it’s important that you take the security of your boat as seriously as you would the security of your home. Boats are more at risk than homes since a thief can just tow your boat away.

And that is something they are doing more often, with at least 25 per cent of all insurance payouts due to theft. Trailerboats and personal water craft are hot property.

The photos accompany this story are of stolen boats as posted on the Marine Area Command, NSW Police Force Facebook page. There are certainly lots of pilfered rigs streaming through and if you're a boatie you should share the stolen-boat posts.

There are several things that can be done to reduce the risk of vessel theft.

Don’t skimp and invest instead in some purpose-built security devices for boats, take advantage of the latest technology and tracking devices, and check with your insurance company to see which devices it approves.

A chain and padlock aren't considered sufficient security these days. Remain vigilant and consider the following tips...

LOCK IT UP
>> Marine dealers carry special exterior hatch locks. When fastened with a quality padlock, one of these improves security.
>> Don't put your valuables on display. When away from your boat for a short time, take what you can and hide what you can't. Remove the equipment completely and store it in a lock-box when you put your boat into long-term storage.
>> To enhance window security, locksmiths carry a variety of special, small locks and fasteners, which can be used to increase the security of other types of windows.
>> For sliding windows, place a length of doweling in the track to prevent the window from being forced open.

STORAGE
>> If your boat is kept in the water, use a marina with full time security and/or good lighting. If you are leaving your boat for long periods of time, ensure that someone else is able to check your boat on a regular basis.
>> Boats on trailers are the most frequent targets of marine theft. Stealing a boat is much easier if a thief can hitch up to your boat and trailer and drive away.

TRAILERBOATS
>> Store trailer in a locked garage, secured boat-storage facility or mini-storage stall.
>> If the trailer is stored at home, put it in the back or side yard out of sight.
>> Store it with the trailer tongue not easily accessible.
>> If storing in an open driveway or carport, park another vehicle or other large object in front of the trailer.
>> Consider removing one trailer wheel.
>> Secure the trailer to an anchored object with a good quality chain and lock.
>> Purchase a good quality trailer hitch lock and use it – even if stored inside.

SOME EXTRA TIPS
We will add that there are some great GPS boat-security and tracking devices these days. Also the sprayed Data Dot system is an unbeatable way to ID boats and gear without it being apparent.

Security cameras that can capture thieves in action can also help track down your boat. Use social media and spread the word about stolen boats. This can lead to recovery.

Back-to-base boat alarms are the bomb. Alarm systems like the BlueRay an Smart1 Marine send an instant SMS (text message) notification to the owner's phones when the boat is moved and track the vessel's location so it can be recovered.

Also, ensure you record the serial and HIN number of your boat, engine and all your gear and consider engraving serial numbers on expensive fishing reels, electronics and so on. Note distinguishing features of your boat to help identify it, too. Boat rebirthing is big business.

Using your boat often is a good way to ensure it's not a sitting duck.