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In this article we are going to look at security for the liveaboard boater for both yourself and your vessel.
We get many questions about security so we aim to answer some of them here so you can be more at ease if you are contemplating a liveaboard lifestyle.
Where you moor your boat will have the biggest impact on security. Many marinas have good security for customers with measures such as CCTV security cameras, access controlled entrance gates and maybe even a security guard. Boatyards may have less than this and if they have residential boats may rely on other residents keeping an eye on things. If you are moored on a river bank or canal tow path you will have much less security.
There are things you can do to make your boat more secure and we will list some here.
1. Cabin doors should be fitted with a good mortise lock. Try to avoid using a padlock as these can be cut easily without making much noise. To break a good mortise lock is more difficult and normally requires the door itself to be broken making a lot more noise and attracting more attention that a thieve does not want.
2. If you have belongings that have to be stored outside the boat such as a bicycle or outboard motor ensure you lock it to a strong point on your boat. If it is not locked you make it easy for an opportunist to take your valuables.
3. If you are away from your boat close the curtains to hide any valuables such as TVs and computer equipment. If it’s on display to passers by temptation is there. Take the temptation away by keeping things hidden when possible.
4. You could fit an alarm to your boat. You could look at car alarms that could be adapted or go for a system specifically for a boat. These systems will normally run from your onboard 12 volt batteries
5. If you are going to be away from your boat for some time such as a 2 week holiday make sure you tell other boater and your moorings operator so they can keep a better eye on your boat.
One thing that you will find within most residential communities is that all liveaboards will look out for each other when it comes to security. Many visitors to my boat have often been challenged by other residents because they where not recognized at the boatyard so we all keep an eye open for each other.
In general, security for a liveaboard boater is something you are always aware of but do not let it affect our wonderful lifestyle. Take measures to reduce the risk and you will be fine.
If you would like to fit an alarm to your boat you can find a suitable one at www.harbourcall.co.uk
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