Security bars on hatches can be a good way to add a feeling of
safety and
security while inside the
boat. Just be sure to keep in mind that at least some of the hatches in your
boat are important as
emergency escape routes.
A
galley or
engine room fire can quickly render the
companionway unusable as an escape
route. It would really suck to be roasted alive because you couldn't get out the
hatch you secured with bars...
The PO of our boat installed security bars, attached with machine screws with anti-vandalism heads. The special screwdriver needed to remove them is secured nearby in each
cabin. They would certainly slow egress, but don't prevent it.