Friday, December 18th, 2009
As the last day of summer comes to an end, it is important to start thinking about caring for your boat during the launch. Do you keep your boat, where winters are not too strong, but still cool enough to end the sailing season? Your boat or yacht is too big to tow? If the boat is in water all year, do not ignore all winter!
NBOA Marine Services is pleased to offer important tips to help you prepare your boat for the winter season, weather and help prevent potential problems related.
• Make regular visits to make sure your ship bilges are dry, drains are clear, mooring lines are secure and not rubbing, and the batteries are charged. Emergency phone numbers in one of the windows of the boat against the dock. If you will be absent for a period of time, arrange for a friend or neighbor check on the boat.
• The accumulation of leaves, ice or snow can block the cockpit drains, and the weight of snow or rain water collected in the cabin can force the stern down, allowing water to enter through the openings normally above the waterline. Check all through hull near the waterline. If any of them are plastic, they can develop cracks that allow water if submerged. Should be replaced with bronze or fiber reinforced nylon.
• Make some bilge pumps and float switches are in good condition and keep the batteries charged. Remember, however, that the bombs did not sink ships. Leaks sink ships. Inspect all hoses, valves, bellows engine, filling cabinets, screens and through the hull and make sure everything is ship shape. Make sure all hatches are secured, all hatches and cockpit drains are free of debris and obstacles.
• Close all seacocks. If left open, and a short time ago that freezing to split a hose or a strainer to crack the ship is sinking, when the weather warms. In fresh water, where the muskrat can be a problem, cover or block the exhaust through hulls. Be sure to inspect all the pipes by opening the seacocks in the spring.
• Install a smoke detector and alarm of water. If there is a problem on board, the alarm can be heard by a neighbor or an employee of the marina.
• Ports are a target for thieves in the winter. Be sure to remove all valuables from your boat, including electronics, tools, binoculars, fishing gear and small outboard engines and take them home or safely store ashore.
• Remove the candles, including those listed Headsail roller to prevent damage during a winter storm. Also, make sure all exterior canvas is properly secured.
• If you must use onboard heaters, consider using non-thermostatic “hot sticks” or “air dryers, which are safer, less use of electricity and help combat mold, keeping the air in movement. Leave open cabinet interiors offer better air circulation. Spend some time preparing for colder weather, and make regular visits to his ship. An Ounce of Prevention in the fall, and attention throughout the winter, can prevent many headaches later!
