Boat theft security

Boat security and preventive measures against theft and loss of your boat.

Boat security

Boat security is very important, you will take precautions against your home or car being broke into and owning a boat which possible is unattended throughout the year is just as important to protect.

Thieves will steal all types of things from boats, your outboard motor, life-raft, expensive marine equipment, radio, tools, personal items and even the boat itself.

Stop thieves using preventive measures.

Thieves look for easy targets, they want to get aboard easy, steal as quickly as possible and without any fuss.

The following precautions could help save your valuables or increase in insurance after a claim.

· Never leave anything valuable on display, however small and insignificant it may seem. Thieves are opportunists, they steal first and think about value later.

· Don't leave anything loose in the cockpit or on deck.

· Don't leave your keys in the ignition - always take them with you.

· Keep your boat keys on separate key ring away from your engine keys.

· Always keep your boat securely locked when no-one is on board, even if only venturing away from the craft for a short period of time.

· Use strong padlocks and clasps on all hatches, entry points and cockpit lockers.

Improve security and stay safe.

Improve the security of your boat, think about if you lost your keys how would you gain access to your boat and how easy would it be for you to do so. If you don't think something is secure, get it fixed. Fitting an alarm and using visible stickers publishing the fact an alarm is fitted is a deterrent to a thief straight away. Installing a strongbox (safe) hidden if possible below deck, will not only help save your valuables, but could decrease your insurance policy payment.

Measures to take when going ashore

Always:

· Lock up all valuables or items out of sight.

· Safely secure emergency money away from other valuables.

· Keep all curtains closed so that no-one can look in.

· Keep unused ropes, fenders and other items out of sight in your cockpit lockers and cupboards and padlock them.

· Make sure that your life raft and outboard motor are secure, as these are valuable and attractive to boat thieves.

When you go ashore from landing craft, always remove your oars, paddles, rowlocks or pump, and secure the dinghy with a strong chain and padlock.

What to do in the event of a break-in

If you are the unfortunate victim of boat theft, call the police immediately they need to be informed not only to investigate the crime but you need a crime reference number from them for your insurance company. Also contact the harbour master or marina office immediately so they to can investigate the crime. Check to make sure that your boat is still seaworthy and hasn't been badly damaged. Check the boats moored up near you, have they been tampered with or broken into as well.

Neighbourhood watch

Get to know other boat-owners in your marina and work together to keep the marina secure. Working together will help prevent crime.

· Keep an eye on each others boat, being vigilant will reduce or catch thieves.

· Report any strangers at the marina to appropriate authorities.

· Don't give access cards or keys to other people.

· Never tell anyone else the access code to a secure marina.

· Don't let strangers into the marina, however genuine they may seem, if they are genuine then a quick call to the office will gain them access.

· Keep the marina gate closed and locked at all times.

· Have the marina display a sign stating a neighbourhood watch is in force.

Serial numbers of boat and items.

Keep a list of all serial numbers on valuables, radio, navigation equipment, outboard motor and the boat itself. Keep a copy of the list at home (just in case your boat is stolen).This can help the police and your insurance company if you have a break-in or boat theft.

Boat marking system

HPI Ltd is working with the British Marine Federation and the Home Office to tag both new and second-hand boats under the new Boatmark scheme. The electronic tags are programmed with the unique 14-character Hull Identification Number (HIN), introduced as a standard feature of all new boats in 1998. Once the number has been put on the boat, it is very difficult to destroy the boat's original identity tag.

The tags will be fitted by people who build new boats or by the owners. In both cases, the boat's identity and specification will be linked to the information carried by the tag and recorded on the Boatmark database, allowing both the police and buyers to find out if a boat has been stolen.

You can get more information about Boatmark by phoning 01722 413346.

Crime prevention officers

The crime prevention officer at your local police station can give you helpful crime prevention advice.

And finally, remember:

· Mark all removable items within your boat with your home postcode.

· Keep your list of serial numbers up to date.

· Take your craft and personal papers with you – don't leave them on board.

· Don't leave your home address or personal identification on show.

· Keep everything securely locked away because your insurance company may not pay out if you don't.