The safest course of action is always avoidance. So, if time permits, relocate your vessel outside the storm path. If relocation is not possible, the next best thing is to remove your vessel from the lift and store it in an alternate location such as hurricane-rated dry stack storage, secured to a boat trailer (if available), or anchorage in a protected bay, canal, or other pocket of water that affords a degree of protection from wind and waves (Hurricane Hole).
Keep in mind that the greatest danger posed by the storm events is tidal surge, which has the potential of raising your vessel off the lift, and if attached, could severely damage the vessel and/or the lift. The flotation of the boat can actually pull up the pilings and dock. After removing your vessel from the boat lift, be sure to secure the boat lift cradles so they are not whipped by the wind. This can be done easily with rope or ratchet straps.
If the only option is to leave the vessel on its boat lift, the first step is to make sure that everything in/on your boat is secured. Any exposed loose items on board, like seat cushions and canvas, should be removed and stored in a secured area. Critical gear such as engines, generators, and electronics can be “bagged” or removed to protect them from rain damage. It is not recommended to cover batteries because it may trap escaping gases and cause an explosion hazard. One of the most critical preparations is to make sure you have a reliable drain system so that your vessel does not fill up with water.
Water weighs ~8.4 lbs./gal. So any significant accumulation could overload the lift capacity. Remember, it is not uncommon for rainfall to exceed 12 inches, and it falls in a relatively short timeframe! We do not recommend relying on bilge pumps since they can be rendered useless in a storm. Instead, find the external drain plug, which is located in the stern at the lowest point of the vessel, and remove it. Be sure to check that there are no obstructions to the flow of water to the drain. Make sure that all of your deck scuppers are clean and free-flowing. After everything in/on your boat is secured, and it is prepared for the rainfall, the next step is to secure the vessel with the boat lift.
Raise your lift to the maximum height without overlapping cables. You want to get your vessel above the estimated tidal surge height if possible. Next, secure your vessel to the boat lift and/or adjacent structure to prevent it from moving. This can be done with rope or ratchet straps. The last step is to take pictures of your secured vessel on the lift. You may need them when dealing with your insurance company.
