Steps To Protecting Yourself And Your Boat On The Open Water

Posted on: 16 September 2016

When you boat is docked in a secure location, it's easy to forget that the danger of theft looms whether you are off or on-board. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, approximately 5,000 boat thefts were reported in 2015. You can help to protect your boat, passengers and precious cargo by taking these four simple steps for increased security while on-board.

GPS Tracking And Monitoring

Typically, maritime GPS monitoring is used by navigators to help chart their routes as well as avoid collisions. When it comes to maritime security, GPS tracking can be used to evade pirates and thieves, and also to monitor the exact whereabouts of your personal vessel.

Modern maritime GPS monitoring systems can also include cloaking features, which will allow you to stay out off of the radar while on the open water. If you are navigating your vessel solo, this feature can be especially helpful for when you want to rest undisturbed.

On-Board Video Surveillance

When you are busy tinkering around in the bow of your vessel or even guiding it along its course, you cannot keep track of what's going on in other areas. Video surveillance can help you to stay aware of all on-board activity as well as alert you of any approaching vessel.

In the event of a hostile takeover, on-board vessel video surveillance can buy you precious extra time, enabling you to plan according and react in the best manner possible. Although anti terrorist security may not seem necessary, charting a watercraft out on the open sea comes with many unforeseen dangers. Having a video surveillance system will give you advance warning and make you safer while on your boat.

Emergency Escape Route

Boating safety includes having the proper provisions on-board, and also creating emergency escape plans. While you may primarily focus on what to do in the event of mechanical failure, open water awareness and force protection should also be a priority.

Knowing which areas your vessel stores rafts, flares and other safety equipment are stored will be helpful if an unauthorized person comes on-board. Memorize where these emergency escape routes are, and practice drills so that your passengers are also aware of all emergency escape plans.

Taking your boat on the open seas can be relaxing if you have covered all your bases beforehand. Make sure that your route and final destination have been mapped out prior to setting sail, and rely on your maritime security plans to keep you and your boat out of danger. 

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