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Local Voices

S.C. Ranks in Top Ten for Boat Theft

South Carolina has the ninth highest number of boat thefts in the nation, according to a 2012 report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). South Carolinians experienced 153 boat thefts in 2012 with only 49 recoveries, a 32 percent recovery rate.

“Boat theft is more common than most people realize, but it only takes a few simple steps to keep from becoming a victim,” said Todd Murph, an Allstate agency owner in Mt. Pleasant. “As boat owners prepare to store their watercraft during the off season, it’s important to consider the necessary precautions to help prevent theft.”

The NICB offers the following tips for boat owners to keep in mind as summer comes to a close:

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  • Always lock and secure a watercraft with a steel cable when docked.
  • Remember to remove expensive equipment from boats while they are not in use.
  • Chain and lock detachable motors to boat.
  • Do not leave title and registration inside of a boat.
  • Disable craft by shutting fuel lines or removing batteries.
  • Use a trailer hitch lock after parking a boat on a trailer.
  • Install a kill switch in the ignition system.

Boat Insurance can cover the losses that occur to a water craft. However, forty percent of boat owners do not carry boat insurance. Boat insurance not only helps protect against theft, but also collision, fire, vandalism and property damage. Policyholders can also receive coverage if a boat owner or a family member is involved in an accident with an uninsured watercraft.

For more information on how to keep your boat protected contact Todd Murph at (843) 352-7353 or ToddMurph@allstate.com

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