Living on the Texas coast means enjoying beautiful waters year-round, but it also requires preparing for the unpredictable hurricane season. High winds, storm surges, and heavy rain can cause severe damage to boats and docks if not properly secured. This guide will help you protect your investment and minimize storm-related risks.
1. Know the Hurricane Season Timeline
Hurricane season in Texas runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity occurring between August and October. Monitoring weather updates from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) is crucial for early preparation.
2. Create a Hurricane Preparation Plan
A well-planned strategy ensures a quick and efficient response when a storm approaches. Your plan should include:
- A checklist of tasks to complete before, during, and after the storm.
- A secure location for storing your boat if removal is necessary.
- An emergency contact list of marinas, insurance providers, and boat storage facilities.
3. Secure Your Boat Before the Storm Hits
Option 1: Remove Your Boat from the Water
If possible, take your boat to a hurricane-rated dry storage facility. If you have a trailer:
- Move your boat to higher ground, away from flood zones.
- Secure it with wheel chocks and anchor it with heavy straps.
Option 2: Secure Your Boat in the Water
If removal isn’t an option, take the following precautions:
- Double up dock lines and use long, stretchy ropes to accommodate storm surges.
- Attach fenders to prevent collisions with docks or pilings.
- Drop an anchor if in a marina or mooring field to reduce movement.
- Seal hatches and cover electronics to prevent water damage.
4. Protect Your Dock from Storm Damage
Docks face extreme stress during hurricanes. To minimize damage:
- Use a floating dock system – Floating docks, like those from EZ Dock Texas, rise and fall with the water, preventing them from being submerged or torn away.
- Reinforce dock pilings – Inspect and strengthen any weak pilings before hurricane season.
- Remove dock accessories – Take down canopies, furniture, and equipment to reduce wind resistance.
- Check dock connections – Ensure all hardware, bolts, and hinges are secured tightly.
5. Check and Upgrade Your Boat Lift
If your boat is stored on a lift, follow these steps to reduce damage:
- Raise the lift as high as possible to avoid storm surge damage.
- Secure the boat to the lift using heavy-duty straps.
- If winds exceed 100 mph, consider removing the boat from the lift entirely.
6. Inspect and Update Your Insurance Coverage
Review your boat and dock insurance policies before hurricane season begins. Make sure:
- Your policy covers storm damage to boats and docks.
- You document current boat and dock conditions with photos for potential claims.
- You understand policy requirements for storm-related losses.
7. Monitor Weather Alerts and Act Early
Once a hurricane watch is issued:
- Begin securing your boat and dock immediately—waiting until the last minute can be risky.
- Stay updated with emergency broadcasts and local evacuation orders.
- Have an evacuation plan for yourself and your family if conditions worsen.
8. Post-Storm Dock and Boat Inspection
After the storm, inspect your boat and dock for damage:
- Look for structural damage on docks, including shifted pilings or broken fasteners.
- Check for leaks, engine issues, or water damage on your boat.
- Clear debris from the dock and surrounding waters before use.
- Report insurance claims immediately if damage occurs.
Stay Prepared and Keep Your Boat and Dock Safe
Proper planning can prevent costly damage and keep your boat and dock secure during hurricane season. Investing in storm-resistant floating docks, securing your boat, and having an emergency plan in place will help protect your waterfront property.
Looking for a durable, hurricane-resistant floating dock? EZ Dock Texas offers high-quality floating docks that provide superior storm protection. Contact us today or follow us on Facebook for more safety tips!
