ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 11, 2010 – The Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) reports that yesterday’s Nor’easter is having a sinking effect on boats stored on Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay waters. The boat owners group has received reports from several marinas advising of the sinking of vessels that had been tied up for the winter in their slip.  The blizzard’s heavy, moisture-laden snow forces a boat deeper in the water, which can place a cracked plastic thru-hull fitting — normally a just few inches above the water line — below water. Thru-hull fittings are typically connected with a hose to bilge pumps, sinks, showers, or live bait wells.

 The boat owners group is recommending that any boat owner with a vessel in a slip should inspect their boat as soon as possible.

“It’s very important to remove the snow loads from a boat that’s stored in the water,” said BoatUS Seaworthy Magazine Editor Bob Adriance.  “If you can’t get to your boat, try to contact your marina staff for help.  We’ve also heard of some shed roofs collapsing onto boats, so now is the time to coordinate snow removal with marina staff.  It’s also good to schedule a visit to your boat a few times each winter season, just to double check on everything, no matter whether it’s stored on the hard or in the water.”

Seaworthy Magazine is sent to all BoatUS Insurance policy holders and aims to help boaters avoid vessel damage and injuries.  For more information on BoatUS Marine Insurance or for a free quote, go to www.BoatUS.com/insurance .

###

 About BoatUS:

BoatUS – Boat Owners Association of The United States – is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing over half a million members with government representation, programs and money saving services.  For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.