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The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.
Whilst looking for better security after having my outboard ripped off, I ran across this device for locking the companionway door: [url="http://www.stazo.nl/html/cabin_lock.html"]Stazo cabin lock[/url]
Has anyone worked with such a device? Made one on their own?
On something of the same vein, has anyone found a decent alarm system more sophisticated than some switches and a relay? The stuff I've seen so far is either overkill or very expensive. May be time to play with some PICs again!
I don't get it... From stories I've heard, a regular padlock will secure the companionway from all but the people who will simply kick it in. So I keep a small lock on it, and keep my valuables at home. Somebody can cut my lock, find nothing important inside, and leave. (If they can lift the Honda, more power to 'em.)
I had my C25 broken into in Georgia. The thieves pushed the top hatch backwards with enough force that the screws holding the top lock plate pulled out. (they are pretty small screws.)
I am interested in the above device. my only thought is the angle and how the top part protruding through works. Will it work at an angle?
I feel your frustration, and don't want to dampen your desire for better boat security.
It's an interesting design, but IMHO, this is just a large bandaid. If someone can filch a locked 100+ pound engine, do you really think this will slow them down much if they want to get into the cabin through the panels most boats have in their companionways?
Alarm systems are helpful if someone is around & <u>willing to respond</u>. BUT...how many folks react to car alarms out on the street anymore?
I'm with Dave: Take the valuables home. Locks are for honest people.
I actually agree pretty much with you and the other posters.
However, as it's been pointed out, the existing lock won't hold up to a single kick. Something a bit beefier might well deter a thief with a limited amount of time on their hands. Of course, the folks who stole my outboard had time!
I'm also thinking of when the boat is in a slip for a couple days. Alarms and deterrents might well be of more use there, since there's usually more people around than at a storage yard. Ya look kinda foolish hauling out gear while an alarm is blaring!
Right now, we have a fully secured facility... I guess theoretically someone from the club could snag something, or somebody could cruise into the marina and swipe something, but that during the season, there is always someone around. I'd rather have somebody lift a few items from the boat than cause damage trying to get to things.
When Cleveland development (i.e. city council, county authorities etc) has their way and removes the fences from the yacht club to give everyone their "lake access" then I'll probably buy a padlock.
One item of note, that I cannot find the quote for but wish I could - -Somewhere along the lines of 33% or more boat owners have keys hidden on binacles, and in cockpit settees or somewhere close by. Makes you wonder why they bother locking it up to begin with
Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ. The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.