An engine is the single most expensive item aboard a recreational boat and every fall boaters should take steps to protect it from freeze-related damage. Whether you do-it-yourself or pay someone else to do the job, BoatUS Marine Insurance claims files show that engine winterization mistakes can be ruinous and sometimes lead to the complete loss of the engine.

Unfortunately, most boat insurance policies won’t compensate the owner as this kind of damage is considered a maintenance issue. For peace of mind this winter, consider adding “freeze coverage” insurance to your boat’s policy.

Freeze coverage insurance generally covers damage to the engine and a boat’s systems as a result of freezing water. Even a small amount of ice in an engine block can exert tremendous pressure, cracking cylinder walls or other internal engine passageways.

Jim Nolan, vice president BoatUS Marine Insurance urges boater to start planning to have their engines winterized now since marinas and yards have a lot to do in the fall and potentially hundreds of boats to winterize.

Freeze coverage should also be considered by trailer boaters who occasionally travel south for vacations or fishing trips. “When your return home, any water left in the wrong place can freeze,” added Nolan.

The good news is the coverage generally costs very little but there are purchase deadlines. BoatUS freeze coverage, for example, costs $20 and has a October 31 deadline – after which it’s unavailable until the following season.

BoatUS – Boat Owners Association of The United States – is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 670,000 members with a wide array of consumer services including a group-rate marine insurance program that insures nearly a quarter million boats; the largest fleet of more than 500 towing assistance vessels; discounts on fuel, slips, and repairs at over 835 Cooperating Marinas; boat financing; and a subscription to BoatUS Magazine, the most widely read boating publication in the US. For membership information visit http://www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.