Hurricane and severe storm plan

Hurricane and severe storm plan

A starting draft, not legal advice. Have your attorney or agency review before use.

Rules on this topic differ by state. Check your state's law before you use this template.

Purpose

This plan sets out who does what at [Marina name] when a hurricane or severe storm threatens during [Season or year]. It is a planning template. Review it with staff and tenants at the start of each season and after every storm.

Who is in charge

• Storm coordinator: [Storm coordinator name], phone [Coordinator phone]
• Backup coordinator: [Backup coordinator name], phone [Backup phone]
• Staff meeting point: [Staff meeting point]
• Local emergency management: [Local emergency management contact]

Start of season

• Update the tenant contact list and confirm each tenant's storm plan for their vessel.
• Check that tenants have current insurance on file.
• Inspect cleats, pilings, dock lines and anchors and fix weak spots.
• Stock extra lines, fenders, chafe gear, fuel for generators and first aid supplies.
• Decide the order for haul-outs and share it with tenants.

Storm watch: a storm may arrive in the coming days

• Coordinator follows forecasts from the National Weather Service and local emergency management.
• Send tenants a notice to carry out their vessel plans.
• Begin scheduled haul-outs and move boats in the agreed order.
• Remove loose items from docks, roofs and the yard.
• Back up office records and move paper files above flood level.

Storm warning: a storm is expected soon

• Stop fuel sales, shut off fuel pumps and close tank valves.
• Shut off shore power to docks as the storm nears.
• Make a list of vessels still in the water and their tie-up status.
• Release staff in time to reach safety. Nobody stays on the docks during the storm.

After the storm

• Wait for local authorities to say it is safe before returning.
• Check for fuel leaks, downed lines and damaged docks before letting anyone on.
• Photograph damage and keep notes for insurance.
• Contact tenants about their vessels' condition.
• Report any oil or fuel spill to the right agencies.

Tenant duties

Tenants are responsible for their own vessels. Each tenant should tell the Marina, in writing, whether they plan to haul out, move the vessel, or double up lines in the slip. Tenants should not stay aboard during a storm.

A starting draft, not legal advice. Have your attorney or agency review before use.