Best Security System

[PamlicoTraveler]

I am researching which approach to security makes sense for us as we travel. I haven't really found a complete boat security system, it seems like you kind of have to create your own.

I guess what I am looking for is a motion detector and an alarm. I have thought a motion detector near the cockpit could be helpful for when we are on the boat; but when we are off the boat we would need a way to disarm it.

Are there any new ideas out there? Any turnkey systems?

[parito]

I just bought IR sensor alarm for 6 pounds. It has remote, as for a car. So when you wanna enter the boat, you just use the remote to deactivate it. Ofcourse it's cheap because siren itself is weak, but i see no problem connecting it to a louder alarm and/or SIM module.

Any alarm system, which is suitable for houses, is suitable for boat, i would think

[AnchorageGuy]

PT, You can go to any auto alarm supplier and get a system that you can customize for your boat. When considering sensors, be sure and use IR and not motion detectors. Motion detectors can be set of just by the boat moving. The problem we found with IR in the cockpit is that if set overnight, and the sun comes up on the cockpit, it sets off the alarm. A large bird flying over will also set it off. Magnetic alarms on hatches and companionways are a good solution at night and can be set up to work with a hatch partially open. There are lots of possibilities. Chuck

[Wetlandsman]

I use a shotgun...no installation required.

[Unicorn Dreams]

Pressure mats in the cockpit work good.
Get one that says WELCOME, then when the alarm goes off, they know they aren't welcome..

[daddle]

Best security? "Vote with your feet." Boats can move. Move to a place where it's safe. Same trick works for best climate.

[PamlicoTraveler]

Thanks all. Some of your suggestions seem practical. I don't care for the shotgun idea as a security measure, and that has been endlessly debated.

After reading this article on noonsite about a robbery in Tobago Cays it made me think about the idea of a "panic button" that would turn on lots of lights and make lots of noise. It seems to me that might be the best way to ward off those with ill intent.

Noonsite: St. Vincent & the Grenadines: Tobago Cays - Armed Robbery - Updated Detailed Report

[Blue Stocking]

Slocum's trick with the tacks on deck takes thecake.

[MarkJ]

I get a sense of déjà vu so I will post this photo again

[Tristan]

Is installing high voltage extra lifeline with a warning sign (in few languages) considered to be legal?
T.

[speciald@ocens.]

Ge makes a wireless home security system for about $250 that has magnetic door switches, motion detectors and an external siren. http://www.homesecuritystore.com/m-22-ge-security.aspxs

[zeehag]

i like markj's hatch--i want to adapt something like htat to my boat's needs....adding some skeeeter netting to the mix to keep out the flying teeth.....anything else may be a problem as i have a cat on board-he tells me when anyone is coming near..and from what direction they are approaching-- he does same thing with wind and rain.

[Tristan]

And if not, how about a warning sign without high voltage?
T.

[CarlF]

I think you've got some good advice for when you are on the boat. I rigged an even simpler companionway gate using an upside down "v" of swaged heavy lifeline wire with eyes. Three lower eyes go over hooks under the companionway corners and one in the middle. All three are then stretched tight and padlocked to a pad eye on the underside of the companionway slider. Anyone older than four can't squirm through. The key hangs just out of reach.

For off the boat, there are now nifty GSM alarms available on Ebay. You buy your own prepaid SIM (I use one from Tmobile in the US). A downside is if you are in other countries you would have to buy a local SIM.

The alarm will send you a text message or email if the alarm goes off (you can hook up bilge alarms, low battery alarms, etc.). You can also get ones with a GPS that will send you a text message if the boat moves more than a set number of feet. To arm and disarm you send your boat a text message. If you want to get fancy you could even send a text message to turn on a bright light to find it when you can't find the boat after a long night of partying. Buying the alarm cost me about $200 and the monthly cost for the SIM is less than $5. No long term contracts.

Carl

[Bash]

I'm having a hard time believing that someone would want to be at anchor with a motion sensor in the cockpit. Watch what your boom does next time someone throws a wake in your direction.