Advice for Choosing Boat Security Systems and Boat Alarms

There are many different types of boat security systems you can use on your boat to keep it secure, and also alert you know when an unsafe condition may be developing.

For example, you may have a bilge water sensor that sounds an alarm depending on the level of water. It may be as simple as a float switch that sends signals to your central alarm system. Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors can signal when these levels are dangerous. A gas detector will let you know if you have a gas leak, by using a solenoid valve.

An intruder alarm will let you know when someone unexpectedly is on your boat. Some of these are made in the form of pressure mats, and some as door switches. You may also have an boat alarm installed on your outboard and dinghy, using a continuity cable, to alert you when either one is handled.

A Marine GPS unit can create a “geo fence” around the position of your boat, and it can be triggered if your boat leaves this area. You can also link a webcam to the systems on your boat so that you can see everything that is happening for yourself.

Boat Security System Information

The information transmitted may vary from one type of system to the next. In a system based within a patrolled marina, for example, you can have a warning displayed on the marina control panel, and a staff member will check on your boat. In addition, a non-GPS system known as a GSM-based system can send you a message to alert you of any problems. GPS systems can send you a text message, and if you have a service contract, the provider will alert the police department if something on your boat, or the boat itself, has been stolen. GPS systems can track your boat anywhere, and can send you alerts by email or text.

Boat Security Systems Installation

If you are looking to have high tech security systems installed on your boat, it’s better to spend the extra money to have them installed by a professional, rather than trying to do it yourself. A system installed by professionals will have less of a chance of false alarms than will a system you install yourself.

If you consider yourself qualified, you can purchase sensor components yourself and use a control box to wire them together. The warning signal then will be transmittable via GSM modem. The signal is relayed through your choice of mobile phone networks. You can also purchase a dedicated alarm kit, which has its own sensors, and have the signals sent via a pay-as-you-go GSM modem. There is also an option where you can buy and install a full boat alarm kit, which includes a satellite modem with a GPS receiver, or a GSM modem and a GPS receiver.

You can have your boat fitted with an alarm that is either wired or wireless, but most experts agree that the wireless systems are the easiest. You won’t have to run cables to the control unit from each separate detector, although each detector will need a battery for its individual transmitter. It can be a bit more difficult, too, to find wireless gas and smoke detectors and bilge water alarms.

There are various places where you can buy marine security systems for boats and their equipment. Keep in mind when you are having a system installed, that a system with only an alarm, and no communication with anyone, will probably simply be ignored. If you have a slip at a marina, you can use the existing wireless security system. Check with the marina for pricing and availability.

If you have a alarm system that communicates via a GSM phone link, it can send messages to more than one phone number. These can also be set up to send voice or email messages to your mobile phone. This only works when you are in range of your provider’s service network. You may have roaming charges if you are contacted by your system while you’re abroad. You can use a SIM card on a pay as you go system with no contract. These can even help you access a site where you can see a map that shows your boat’s position.

However your boat security system is designed, they are becoming more simple to use, and sadly, more necessary, as well. Alarms for boaters are more affordable than you might think, since you don’t usually have to pay for features you don’t use.

About the Author

Jane Warren is an avid outdoor water enthusiast who enjoys swimming, diving, boating, ski tubes, and anything else related to outdoor water sports. Out of this love of water sports, Jane started the website TowableTubesDirect.com, where she provides information and reviews on top selling watersports equipment. She also provides articles reviews on boating items that contribute to safer water activities, such as tips for water sport safety, and the need for adequate boat insurance.