Welcome to Storing Rowing Equipment in the Winter
For some of us Winter means time to put away our rowing equipment until next season.
That also means that some of our equipment won’t look quite the same or row quite the same in the Spring as it did when we put it away in the Fall.
That’s usually due to damage that occurred while in storage.
Storage can be hard (very hard) on rowing equipment
In fact some drastic, devastating, and totally unpleasant things can happen to rowing equipment when it is stored.
Storing rowing equipment for an extended period (more than a week) necessitates that you first take a few important steps. Why? So your equipment survives the storage and is ready to row another day.
Storing rowing equipment wisely
In my book Nuts and Bolts Guide to Rigging, I detail some of the steps you can take to make your storage safer for your equipment. Here is a condensed version of 10 suggestions I make in the book.
- Step 1: Take active steps to prevent any fires, including having a site visit by a Fire Marshall, and/or insurance agent.
- Step 2: Store all equipment out of direct sunlight.
- Step 3: Wash and dry all equipment, especially those made of naturally materials, completely before storing.
- Step 4: Check storage site for evidence of insects and rodents, and take action if you see any.
- Step 5: Make repairs on equipment before storing.
- Step 6: If the temperature drops well below freezing, store outboard motors in heated areas, or make sure to drain all water from the engines.
- Step 7: Remove batteries from all electrical items (e.g., flashlights, megaphones) except those in which the manufacturer has sealed in the battery in, such as in a Cox-Box.
- Step 8: Store equipment only in areas that are dry, well ventilated, and do not experience drastic temperature extremes or are prone to flooding.
- Step 9: Clean up all trash and waste areas. They can be potential fire hazards and attract uninvited guest of the four legged variety.
- Step 10: Take proper security measures. Here you are looking to thwart uninvited guests of the two legged variety.
10 pretty simple steps that help make your Spring rowing get off to a better start, and with a lot less surprises.
