Checklist: Burglar and theft protection made easy

In the marina

• Lock your yacht, even if you are only leaving it for a moment
• Never 'hide' a key on board
• Never write the name of your boat on the key
• Lock/bolt storage lockers
• Secure the outboard engine
• Lock/secure hatches
• Secure dinghies
• Secure bikes
• Remove and secure dinghy centreboards and oar blades if possible
• When leaving the yacht, store sheets and removable fittings securely on board
• Switch off the master switch
• Always activate security systems, even if you will only be gone briefly
• Regularly check that your security systems and their power supplies function correctly
• Do not leave any valuable items (e.g. laptops and binoculars) on display below deck
• Remove any loose accessories, e.g. plotters and fishfinders, when leaving the yacht
• Hide expensive equipment with a plain covering
• Remain alert in the marina and report anything unusual to the harbourmaster
• Leave your contact details with the harbourmaster
• Keep a copy of your serial numbers (e.g. hull and engine numbers) safely on land
• Perform an inventory of your property and keep this on land  

In winter storage

• Select a secure place for winter storage, preferably somewhere fenced in, with exterior lighting and motion sensors
• Empty the ship and securely store nautical items such as plotters, radar equipment, GPS, binoculars   and life jackets, e.g. in the cellar of your home
• Stainless steel propellers are popular with thieves, so make sure you remove them and store them in a safe place
• Always lock the yacht, hatches and storage lockers etc. during winter storage
• Securely store tools and ladders and do not leave them lying around  

Trailers

• Do not leave trailers parked out in the open for prolonged periods
• Always secure trailers appropriately, even when only being left for a short period
• Always keep the trailer box locked
• Always remove loose items, such as oar blades, when travelling on the road  

In the event of a claim 

• Contact the police immediately and report the incident
• Inform your insurance company
• In case of burglary, take measures to minimise damage
• Take clear photos to support your claim (close-up images)
• Make a list of stolen items and compare with your inventory
• Pass on the serial numbers of the stolen items