Local police forces are gearing up for the start of the season and urging boat owners to take precautions against marine theft.

Dorset Police marine section is anticipating a surge of boats being relaunched over the Easter weekend and will be patrolling Poole Harbour encouraging sensible security precautions.

Dorset Police has put together the following security checklist for boat owners:

• Don’t leave anything loose in the cockpit or on the deck
• Always put your valuables in a strong, fixed locker and secure with a quality deadlock or padlock
• Take your personal and vessel papers with you – don’t leave them on board
• Don’t leave your home address on show
• Don’t leave your keys in the ignition – always take them with you
• Keep your boat keys separate from your engine keys
• Make sure your curtains are closed so no-one can look in
• Ensure all unused ropes, fenders and other items are out of sight in your cockpit lockers and cupboards
• Make sure that your life raft and outboard motor are secure, as these are valuable and attractive to boat thieves
• Keep your list of serial numbers up to date

Commenting on the upcoming season, Inspector Alan Ewart said: ‘It’s important to take the security of your boat as seriously as you would the security of your own home.’