[August 08, 2014]

GEICO urges boater preparedness and safety as Hurricanes Iselle and Julio bear down on Hawaii

Hurricanes Iselle and Julio are threatening the Hawaiian Islands with damaging winds, heavy rainfall and flash flooding. With the weather always being a major concern for boaters in coastal areas, GEICO is encouraging boat owners to take the necessary precautions to minimize the potential for injuries and property damage.

GEICO recommends the following preparedness tips.

1. Have a plan in place - Create a storm plan that details how and where your boat will be anchored during a hurricane. Once you've created your plan, practice it to ensure all parts of your plan are do-able.
2. Stay alert for weather bulletins - Check the local and national weather forecasts for advisories and updates. Be prepared to act immediately when an alert goes out.
3. Stock up on supplies - Make sure that you have enough supplies (duct tape, rope) and other necessities at the beginning of storm season. Keep in mind that shortages can inevitably occur once a hurricane watch or warning has been announced.
4. Remove your boat from the water - One way of protecting your boat during a storm is to remove it from the water to a safe location farther inland. Once you have moved your boat inland, either store it in a garage or tie down the boat securely using heavy ropes or chains to solid structures.
5. Docking at a marina - If your boat is moored at a marina, check to determine their storm plan and what's in your lease agreement. If your boat can't be removed from the water, ask if it can be moved to a larger slip with proper tie-downs, which will provide better protection against chafing.
6. Hurricane Haul-Out protection - It's much wiser to haul a boat out of a danger zone than to take the risk of facing a storm. With Hurricane Haul-Out protection, your policy coud pay or reimburse a certain amount of the cost (availability and limits are subject to the policy terms and conditions) to have your boat moved by professionals to a safer location if a hurricane watch or warning is issued in your area.

GEICO's online service center helps policyholders take care of policy sales, policy changes and claims reporting, and print insurance ID cards. Policyholders can also connect to GEICO through the GEICO App, reach a representative over the phone or visit a GEICO local agent.

GEICO also provides insurance quotes on motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for life, homes and apartments is written by non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.

Boat and PWC coverages are written through Seaworthy Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and through other non-affiliated insurance companies, and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency. For more information, go to www.geico.com.

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