Boat Security and Theft Prevention

Your boat is a valuable possession, so you should keep it safe when you’re not using it. Read on for some tips to keep your vessel safe from theft and other damage! If you have any questions, reach out to Polaris of Gainesville and our team will be happy to help you out. We are located in Alachua, Florida and proudly serve Gainesville, Lake City, and St. Augustine!

Find Secure Storage

The first step in keeping your boat safe is to find secure storage. You definitely don’t want to leave your vessel out in the open for all to see. If a thief sees an uncovered craft latched to its trailer, they might try to hitch up a truck and tow it away! If you keep your boat stored at home, put it behind a tall, locked fence. You should also face the tongue away from the road, locked or removed altogether. Another option is to store it in a locked garage or shed.

If you plan on storing your boat at a marina or storage facility, make sure to do some research to ensure that your craft will be secure and safe from theft. Check that the facility has surveillance and patrols, as well as alarms and locked doors. The more steps you take to discourage theft and keep your vessel secure, the better.

Cover

One essential item for craft security and theft prevention is a strong, tight-fitting cover. This will deter thieves from taking your vessel since they can’t see what’s underneath without snooping. This action will cause suspicion, so they are less likely to do it out in the open. 

Remove Valuables and Paperwork

No matter where you store your boat, an important part of keeping it secure is removing all valuables and paperwork. This includes registration, licenses, journals, and logbooks. If a thief gets ahold of these, they may steal your vessel and pass it off as their own.

Take Extra Security Measures

If you are committed to security and theft prevention, you may want to mark your parts and/or install a security system. By engraving your vessel’s hull with identification, you’ll be able to easily identify your own craft. If you want to go the extra mile, consider installing a security system that will allow you to keep tabs on your property while you’re away. You can install a simple alarm or a video surveillance system.

We hope these tips help you keep your valuable boat safe and secure from theft! If you want any more advice or you’re looking to buy a new craft, reach out to Polaris of Gainesville today, located in Alachua, Florida. We are proud to serve Gainesville, Lake City, and St. Augustine, and we can’t wait to help you with all of your marine needs!