TERRANCE PHILLIPS -- The Harbor Column

November is upon us, a time when boats and bikinis are tucked away for

a long winter’s nap. Hot days are being replaced with hot chocolate, and

we’re getting to the time when water jumps on us, instead of us jumping

into it.

For boaters, the next five months are called “sinking season.” So it’s

time to winterize your boat.

The mildew menace is ready to move into your cabin unless you take

action. Lights, air circulation and anti-mildew devices should be

installed immediately. Mildew will not only ruin your fabrics, but it

also can creep into wood, which causes permanent stains and stench.

Weatherize and reseal your ports and hatches to ensure water stays on the

outside of the hull. Check your bilge pumps and especially the automatic

float switches to confirm that they’re in working order, and visit your

vessel at least once a week.

Definitely visit your boat during and after a heavy rain to inspect

the bilge. Be aware that if your boat has oil in the bilge and then a few

gallons of rainwater gets in, it could set off your automatic bilge pump,

dumping oil into the harbor. This is not only hazardous to our harbor,

but it can also be hazardous to your wallet.

The Harbor Patrol goes on full alert during a rainstorm, checking for

vessels in distress and also for vessels that may pose a hazard to our

highly sensitive marine environment. Boats in violation will definitely

be cited and, depending upon the degree of the infraction, a heavy fine

can and will be levied. It is highly advisable to have your bilge flushed

and vacuumed by one of several companies that specialize in this service.

A flush today can save the bay.

“This is the time to take a long look at winter maintenance -- things

like frayed lines that, when put under severe stress, could snap,

especially if your boat is tied to a mooring,” said Lt. Dotti Ronan,

assistant Newport harbor master for the Orange County Sheriff’s

Department.

“If you are concerned about your boat for any reason or if you’re

going to be out of town for a while, you should give us a call, and we’ll

keep an eye on your boat. More boats sink during the rainy season

because of neglect rather than because of rain filling up the hulls. Of

course, there is no substitute for being proactive in a disciplined

maintenance program,” Ronan added.

The marine environment is under more scrutiny by the courts than ever

before. Ronan also said court fines are increasing and can be especially

high for repeat offenders.

If you are going to leave your boat unattended for a period of time

while you are out of town, let the Harbor Police know. But be aware, they

are not “boat sitters.” The Orange County Sheriff’s harbor master can be

reached at (949) 723-1002.

* TERRANCE PHILLIPS is the Daily Pilot’s boating writer. You can reach

him via e-mail at [email protected].