The FACTS
In the US last year the National Insurance Crime Bureau released its 2019 watercraft theft report. The report, based on theft data contained in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, revealed that there was a total of 4,240 thefts of watercraft in 2019.
The top five states for thefts in descending order were:
The top five cities for thefts in descending order were:
The top five types of watercraft stolen in descending order were:
The top five manufacturers for watercraft thefts in descending order were:
Most thefts in 2019 occurred during the months of July (543), June (517) and May (483). December logged the fewest thefts with 205.
With the boating season upon us, boat owners are reminded to practice safe and smart boating. That includes personal safety while on the water, as well as theft prevention.
NICB recommends the following tips to protect your watercraft from theft:
- When you “dock it, lock it” and secure it to the dock with a steel cable
- Remove expensive equipment when not in use
- Chain and lock detachable motors to the boat
- Do not leave title or registration papers in the craft
- Disable the craft by shutting fuel lines or removing batteries
- Use a trailer hitch lock after parking a boat on its trailer
- Install a kill switch in the ignition system
- Ensure your marine insurance policy includes your equipment, boat and trailer
- Take photos of the boat and mark it with a Hull Identification Number (HIN)
- Use a GPS tracking device (yeah, we added that 😉)
The SOLUTION
Its not that hard in 2021. Use a Jetski Army 3G/GPS tracker!
