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Step 1
Use extra strong line to tie your boat. Docks will rise and fall in high winds or storms, so the lines have to be strong to endure the pull and strains between the boat and the dock. During high winds, tie the lines with a little "give" to them. Your boat should rock and roll with the waves coming in due to high winds. If the lines are too tight, the pressure from the dock may cause your boat to dip into the water or sink.
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Step 2
Secure the boat with at least four strong lines. Tie one line on each side of the boat toward the front and the other two on each side toward the rear of the boat. Start with the front two lines. These should be far enough in back of the slip so that the boat can't be thrust forward to smash into the dock, which can damage the hull. Use more lines if you have them.
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Step 3
Hang bumpers or fenders from the boat side rails in places where the boat might hit the dock. These will cushion the boat if it makes contact with the dock. Use as many fenders or bumpers as you have.
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Step 4
Remove any canvas tops, sails, lifeboats, floats or anything attached to the boat that the wind could catch. If you can't remove them, tie these items down in a low area within the interior of the boat.
