Boating is a huge part of life for residents and guests of Virginia’s Eastern Shore whether it is occupational or recreational. Boats are especially vulnerable to damage during a nor’easter or hurricane. A hurricane warning advisory is posted when sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected within 24 hours or less--too late, in most situations, to head for the boat. Securing the house, gathering emergency provisions, and evacuating the family will need attention at this point. Heed and respect National Weather Service warnings and safely moor your boat before storm tides or storm surge arrive. Boats transported on trailers should be removed from the water and stored securely.

For boats stored on land:

• Remove & store outboard motors, batteries, fuel containers, electronic equipment and any loose items.
• Tie down the boat and trailer. Deflate trailer tires.
• Small boats may be partially filled with water to add weight.
• If possible, store your boat in a garage.

For boats that are overboard:

• Some marinas require that you remove your boat before a storm strikes. Have a plan already in place if this is applicable to your boat. Out-of-area boat owners especially should inquire about and plan for a desirable and convenient location for safe mooring. Obtain information from marina operators.
• Boats should be tied high, using a secure knot. Make sure the lines are high enough on the pilings to allow for extreme ebb and flow of the water during storm surge. 
• Safe mooring lines should consist of new or good condition ropes of sufficient size, with extra length and at least three or four substantial anchor points for each craft. Double check all ropes, cleats, chocks and winches for strength. Double the rigging lines fore and aft. Cover any rope that may rub the boat with old inner tubes or garden hoses. This will protect the boat and rigging lines. 
• Tie old tires around the boat to protect it from being bounced into the dock, pilings or nearby boats.
• Make sure batteries for bilge pumps are fresh.
• Remove or secure any loose items.
• Do not moor parallel to the bank as receding tides often breach or capsize boats in this type of anchorage.
• If possible, boats should be moored in groups with bow lines individually tied high to trees or pilings on the mainland with loose rope for rising tide, and sterns well anchored. Boats in the group should also be tied together at bows and sterns using protective fenders.

For more information on preparing your boat, visit http://boatus.com/hurricanes.