Boating Basics: Before Going Out

Preventing Marine Theft

To prevent theft of your vessel, motor, and equipment:

• Store your vessel so that it is not easily accessed.
  • Store your vessel and trailer in a locked garage or storage area.
  • Park another vehicle in front of the trailer, or lock the trailer to a fixed object in a well-lighted area.
  • Secure the vessel and trailer to a fixed object with a good quality chain and lock. If moored, secure the vessel to the dock with a steel cable and lock.
  • Remove trailer wheel if parked for an extended time.
  • Purchase a quality trailer hitch lock and use it.
• Chain and lock the motor and fuel tanks to the vessel.
• Mark or engrave all equipment with an identifier such as your driver's license number including state abbreviation.
• Photograph or videotape the interior and exterior of your vessel, showing all installed equipment and additional gear and equipment. Make a complete inventory of your equipment, vessel, and trailer.
• Remove expensive electronics or other valuables if the vessel is left unattended.
• Cover your vessel and always remove the keys.
• If your vessel has a cabin:
  • Replace any spring latches with dead-bolt locks.
  • Install lugs in the hinge plates to prevent removal of the hinge pins.
  • Place dowels in the tracks of sliding windows or doors.
  • Consider installing an alarm system.
• Title and register your vessel.