November is upon us, and as we think about winter and its coming cold, wind, and potential snow, now is a good time to think about your boat(s).
Here are a few tips and recommendations from OHCA Piers and Harbors for putting your boat(s) up for the winter:
- Boat US and many magazines have winterizing tips for boats. There is no need to repeat them all on this Blog. But, if you don't have a winterization check off list that works for you, these sites are a great reference for information.
- OHCA recommends, but does not require you to remove your boat from its slip for the winter.
- OHCA is not responsible for damage from ice, snow, storm surge, or other affects of nature.
- OHCA is not responsible for damage done to your boat if a piling or dock breaks free, or is pulled up during the winter.
- OHCA has bubblers that we place to protect the docks from freezing. They are not intended to protect boats and may not be placed where they will aid in keeping ice from forming around your boat.
- Winter; with its storms, dramatic temperature changes, winds and storm surges can be very hard on boats. Storing your boat properly can significantly increase the life expectancy of the boat.
- Ultraviolet rays don't stop in the winter and will continue to do their worst to fiberglass, canvas and sails on your boat.
- Kayaks and Dinks in the racks should be secured, covered and locked if you are going to leave them out for the winter. Please make sure you have an OHCA sticker on them.
- A very limited number of small boats can be stored for the winter by the Fishing creek Dingy Racks. Please don't block other boats in.
- No boats on trailers may be stored in the parking lots or by the dingy racks. These are for small row boats, sail boats and kayaks only.
- Don't trust that any ice around the Oyster Harbor community can hold the weight of a person.
- Be careful on docks and walkways, as ice forms faster near the water, on docks, and on boats than on the ground.
Here are some slip specific notes for all slip holders:
- If you are not planning to renew your slip in April 2012, please let us know as soon as possible.
- If you have not paid for your slip yet, please get your payment in immediately. Collection letters will be going out in December. If you have not paid, you will loose your slip in 2012 and any rights to rent another slip until you are paid up.
- If you tie your boat to a dock or bulkhead without paying for a slip, OHCA will begin enforcing removal of boats, beginning this winter.
If you have questions or concerns, or if you notice damage to a pier, please let Claire or myself know.
We wish everyone a warm and safe winter.
Sincerely,
Eric Epstein
Piers and Harbors Committee Chair
410-575-4001
