Tornadoes- Stay Safe & Get Covered!

Major storms can wreak havoc on your boat, rendering it completely useless and costing you a fortune in the process. It’s important to keep yourself and your boat safe when a major storm is on the way. We may not have to worry about hurricanes here in Austin, TX, but as you know, tornadoes can cause just as much damage. Use the following tips to keep yourself and your boat safe when you hear the thunder begins and the tornado sirens sound. 

– Get off of the water. While it may be tempting to wait out the storm and see if it passes, it’s always a bad idea. When you’re warned of an incoming severe thunderstorm or tornado, it’s time to return to shore and get the boat out of the water if possible.

– Once your boat is safely secured on shore, remove any important papers or documents if you have time. If the storm is nearby, skip this step, of course.

– Evacuate the boat. It’s not a good idea to wait out the storm on your boat, even after it’s secured at the shore- you need to head to a safer location. If a sturdy building is not available, you’ll be better off in your car than on your boat. 

– Remove your boat from the water if possible. If not possible, take precautions. Make sure your boat is safely secured to a sturdy dock. Leave plenty of slack in the rope so that your boat is able to rise with higher tides, if necessary. 

There’s no doubt about it- storms happen, especially in Texas, and it’s important that you’re prepared. Call Southwest Insurance Center for your boat insurance needs.