POLICE are warning boat owners to take good care of their craft and belongings, once the sailing season finishes at the end of next month.

In the close season the avid sailors have their boats out of the water in storage in various locations.

Marine crimes are historically ones of an acquisitive nature, with the locations of these crimes centring on the moorings for those vessels or lay-up locations. Sailing by its very nature requires boats to be left virtually unattended and therefore vulnerable at most times.

Crimes will often occur over long time periods when the victim is away from their boat.

Reduce the opportunity and reduce the likelihood of being a victim of crime by considering the following top ten tips:

l Keep your boat secure and remove items that can be removed, or secure them also.

l Marking your possessions and displaying the fact that you have taken such action will deter thieves.

l Prepare and record a list of all identification numbers.

l Keep engine and/or boat keys separate and secure at all times.

l Use padlocks that are appropriate and recommended for maritime environments.

l Consider fitting a strongbox, particularly if you travel to different ports.

l All on deck items must be readily available when the boat is in use e.g. life raft but when moored, the same items become attractive to thieves. Develop a routine to secure such valuable items before and after you set sail.

l Remember, ropes and fenders have a re-sale value.

l If you use a mooring and then use a dinghy, think about how you can secure the dinghy, engine and paddles etc when you reach land. Have you secured your boat before leaving it?

l Join a 'Boat Watch' scheme in your local area – contact the local Neighbourhood Team for details.