Marinas offer much more to the community than boat harboring. They create picturesque areas for people to gather and enjoy the waterfront, either as boaters or visitors. Unfortunately, their open nature makes them targets for opportunistic criminals. Encourage marina owners to protect your investment by purchasing OC marina insurance and implementing some basic security measures.
Do Marinas Have Security?
Many marinas have security measures in place, but owners face a balancing act between deterring crime and maintaining accessibility. Boat owners have differing opinions about security measures, which may further complicate decisions. Whatever the boat owners and marina owners agree to, they have options for securing the property without diminishing visual appeal, inconveniencing members, or shutting out the community.
Premises Security in Marinas
Your first layer of security comes through low-tech and limited-tech options as follows:
Locks
Installing locks on clubhouses, restroom doors, and other marina facilities restricts building access to members and authorized guests. Metal keys, keycards, and keypads all provide basic security, though they are not foolproof. Boat owners can lessen the risk of crime by using these measures cautiously. Keep your keys and keycards in a secure location to prevent unauthorized duplication or code stealing, and protect keypad codes as you would any other password.
Fences
The right fencing serves as a strong crime deterrent. Wrought iron fences are difficult to breach and offer aesthetic appeal with multiple designs and finish options. If wrought iron fending stretches the marina’s budget, wire fencing provides some protection.
Signs
Installing professionally made signs at strategic points in the marina helps passers-by understand the boundaries and rules. Boat owners can also place signs on or near their boats to warn trespassers. Using clear symbols and bold text makes the warnings easier to understand.
Gates
Gated entries limit automotive and pedestrian traffic. Incorporating gates into a fence system provides added security and maintains style continuity. Gated entryways may be automatic or staffed by security personnel, depending on the needs and budget of the marina.
Security Cameras
For maximum security, ask your marina contacts about installing surveillance cameras in different parts of the property. Professional installation is key; trained technicians know how to find the most effective camera locations and recommend the right technology for the situation. A professional security company can also provide 24-hour monitoring and automatic emergency calls, which may not be an option if marina staff and boat owners try to go it alone.
If you want increased security at your marina, talk to the staff and fellow boat owners. If the ownership balks at the cost or inconvenience, let them know that more robust security can lower their OC marina insurance premiums. They enjoy financial savings in addition to peace of mind.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
