LESSONS LEARNED

1 DEVELOP A STRATEGY

Have a detailed action plan for securing the boat and put it into practice before the season starts to ensure it works.

2 GET RELIABLE FORECASTS AND KEEP CHECKING THEM

Check hurricane forecasts at least twice a day and six-hourly if there is anything developing. Use more than one source and make sure they are up to date.

3 ACCESS ALL AREAS

Ensure you have a dependable means of accessing weather forecasts from the boat, whether at sea or close to shore.

4 REFINE YOUR ANCHORING TECHNIQUE AND EQUIPMENT

It’s not just about having the right equipment but also using it effectively. Any weak link in the process and your system is going to fail.

5 WATCH ROTATIONS

Lets face it, you’re not likely to sleep through a hurricane but having someone on watch is essential to quickly respond to any issues or raise the alarm.

6 BE PREPARED BEFORE THE HURRICANE HITS

Activities are difficult to undertake during storm conditions. Prepare early, even if only on the outskirts of a storm.

7 HAVE BASIC DISASTER SUPPLIES ON HAND

Keep water topped-up and have plenty of non-perishable food. Consider additional requirements for pets and children.

8 BE READY TO LEAVE AT A MOMENT’S NOTICE

As soon as you’re issued with a Hurricane Watch or Warning, ensure you’re prepped ready to set sail out of the threatened area.