Hurricane Aftermath: Hidden Dangers of Disasters

In our previous post, we discussed the important safety factors to remember when returning to your boat. Apart from just securing your vessel and salvaging what you can, there are other hidden dangers associated with hurricanes. These storms can take a toll both physically and emotionally, and recovering isn’t going to happen overnight. In addition to filing any relevant Boat Insurance claims, consider the following stages of hurricane recovery.

Rising waters.

Even if the rain has subsided, marinas and harbors can continue to swell. It can take days for the full effects of heavy rains to set in, often leading to a second round of destruction. If your boat is still in the marina, ensure that it’s still going to be safe if waters continue to rise.

Driving on water-covered roads or through flooded areas can leave you hurt or stranded – or worse. Help may not be able to reach you right away if you get stuck, and you won’t be able to see hazards like debris or sinkholes in your path. Avoid driving through flooded areas, especially when the water is fast-moving. As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Silent killers.

If your marina suffered a power outage and you have a generator to use as backup, be careful to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Many everyday activities can be a silent killer without even knowing.

The carbon monoxide (CO) these devices produce is a silent killer – you can’t see it or smell it. To avoid being a victim, always use generators, grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning devices outdoors, and keep them at least 20 feet away from any windows, doors, or vents. Use a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector to alert you to any CO in your home, explains the article.


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