Boat theft is a pervasive crime. People have had boats stolen from their front yards, backyards and secured storage. Part of keeping your boat safe and sound wherever you store it involves staying on top of the latest innovations and tips. This guide details some of the best methods for boat security that will make you less likely to be a victim of boat theft. We hope that you stay vigilant to protect your investment. You can visit Thayer's Marine, and our team will show you around our complete inventory. Our dealership, located in Norwich, Connecticut, serves customers in Norwich, Connecticut, and Springfield, Massachusetts. 

Invest in High-Quality Locks

Everything on your boat needs to be locked down. The engine should be locked to the boat so that a thief cannot run off with it. If you have an interior cabin, you need to secure it, too. Put a chain around the tires and wheels of the boat trailer to keep thieves from running off with the entire vessel. Make sure that the locks you use are high-quality models that are strong enough to withstand tools. 

Disable the Trailer

Disabling the boat trailer is an excellent method to make taking the boat almost impossible. The best way is to remove the tires, but this involves more work. An easier option is to remove the trailer lights, making it more difficult for the thieves to leave with the vessel. Make it as hard as possible for someone to hook the trailer up and get away before you notice what they are doing.

Theft-Proof Storage Location

You should try to park the trailer with the tongue towards the house or a tree when you are at home. This position makes it more difficult for a thief to hook it up to their vehicle and drive away with the boat. You can also park your tow vehicle in front of the boat to prevent theft. You could also put motion-activated lights to alert you to strangers snooping around your property. The lights need to be situated so that a thief cannot easily disable them. 

Anti-Theft Technology

Anti-theft technology has become very advanced over the years. Consider setting up electronic kill switches or tracking systems onboard your boat to alert you of any potentially unauthorized activity. Some technologies also make it easier for the police to track stolen boats down. For example, you can coat an engine with microdots that provide a unique identification code. 

We hope that you feel better about keeping your boat safe and secure with these handy tips. If you still have concerns, head to Thayer's Marine in Norwich, Connecticut. Our team welcomes customers from Springfield, Massachusetts, and Norwich, Connecticut.