Batten Down the Hatches

You know how to prepare your home in the face of a hurricane, you know the essentials to stock up on - but do you know how to secure your bike, car or boat? These big ticket items are investments that you definitely want to protect. Up your game this hurricane season with some fantastic tips and tricks to help you be prepared!

Bikes

sTOre iT insiDe

If space permits you to do so, consider storing your bike in the garage or house. This won’t work for everyone, but it is one of the best and easiest ways to keep your bike safe! In areas where flooding is a concern, placing your bike on a lift of sorts and strapping it down to prevent rolling could be that extra step to reduce accidental damage.

Pick THe BesTLOcaTiOn

If you are storing your bike outside, invest in a bike cover or wrap your bike with a tarp - this will protect your bike from wind, rain and small debris. Avoid parking near or under trees as well as power lines, these have the potential to cause a major inconvenience if they fall on top of your motorcycle. It is recommended that you park near a sturdy wall such as your house, this will help to minimize wind trauma and offer support, so that your bike does not topple over.

PrOTecTYOur engine

Cover your air cleaners and exhaust. The extra protection will prevent water from getting into your engine which can cause problems down the line. If you have any custom pieces, consider removing and storing them safely in your house.

FiLLYOur Tank

Ensure that you fill your tank before the hurricane arrives, it’s important to be prepared and have a plan after the hurricane subsides.

cars

Take PHOTOs

Take pictures of your car just before a hurricane approaches. Although this seems very simple, it is vital for insurance purposes as it is harder to examine damages without having a before comparison.

FinDTHe sPare keY

Store copies of your car’s registration and insurance documents inside your home in a dry and safe place. It is also advised to make copies of this information and make sure you have the spare key so, if in the event you are separated from your vehicle or family, they can have access to the car.

FiLL uPYOur Tank

Once again, gas is a must for hurricane readiness, we recommend filling up your tank prior to the hurricane. After the hurricane you’ll be able to get to where you need to go, without the hassle of having to find an open gas station.

FinD a saFe LOcaTiOn

Park your car in a safe environment where it is ideally sheltered from high winds, water and debris. A garage does help with this but if not, parking behind your house or a solid wall works too. Also, don’t forget to properly secure any car covers or tarps that you may use to cover it!