There is nothing more enticing to a thief than an easy target. As a boat owner, it is up to you to make your vessel as unattractive to a would-be thief as possible. Follow these simple steps to prevent boat theft and protect your valuables from crime.

Be alarmed
The best way to scare off boat thieves is to install a security system that is reliable. With advancements in technology, there are many different types of boat alarms to choose from. You can select a traditional alarm that will be loud and shocking or you can purchase a microchip that will discreetly notify police and track your vessel using global positioning satellites.

Mark your territory
Sure it’s admirable for boat owners to proudly name their vessels, but it’s also very smart. Painting a name on your boat is a means of theft protection. It’s important for authorities to have identifying marks to search for when they are trying to retrieve your stolen property. One downfall to painting, however, is that it can be removed and painted over. To prevent your mark from being removed, opt to engrave your boat’s identification number on your vessel, equipment, and personal items. Also etch your identification number or drivers license number in an area on the boat that is hard to find, but will be identifiable by the police.

Out of sight, out of mind
Strategically place your valuable items in areas that are not easily visible. If a thief can blatantly see what’s available for theft, it’s that much more attractive to go after your boat. Everything including equipment, cell phones, radios, portable gadgets, and jewellery should be placed securely out of sight.

Play it safe
Install a safe below deck to keep all of your valuables secure.

Increase difficulty
If someone is going to try to steal from your boat, make it as difficult as you can for them. Lock as much as your equipment down as you can with hefty screws, bolts and locks. The longer it takes for a thief to steal something, the less appealing that item becomes.

Trailers
If you keep your boat latched to a trailer, you should remove or lock the tires to ensure that it is very difficult to drive the trailer away.

Storage
Where you keep your boat will also play a major role in its security. The best place to have your boat is in a guarded marina or yacht club. If this is not an affordable option, make sure you keep your boat in a well-lit, secure area to dissuade would be burglars. If it isn’t being used regularly it’s a good idea to periodically check on your boat.

The back-up plan
Investing in a good marine insurance policy is a great way to protect your valuables. Choose to be the proactive boat owner by taking the steps to prevent theft and protecting yourself from criminal intent.