Working safely in winter storage: 20 tips for working in the boat shed
- Danger picture: Why winter storage risks are exploding
- Preparation: rules, equipment and checklist
- Fire protection: averting the top dangers
- Electrics and electricity: avoid short circuits
- Tidiness and cleanliness: eliminate tripping hazards
- Scaffolding and ladders: preventing falls
- Escape and emergency: keep routes clear
- Theft protection and valuables
Danger picture: Why winter storage risks are exploding
Photos of burning boat sheds are a source of shock for owners every year. Almost every year, we report on hall or boat fires in which valuable vessels are lost. Sometimes due to arson, but mostly due to owner or operator negligence. Hardly any hall is free of safety gaps: Overloaded electrical circuits, flammable rags or blocked escape routes. Important: The hall operator is rarely liable in the event of damage. Without comprehensive insurance (in addition to liability), you are left empty-handed - check your policy for winter storage cover.
Preparation: rules, equipment and checklist
1. check hall rules and insurance
Read the hall regulations in advance: Smoking, open fires and heating appliances (especially gas) are almost always prohibited. Clarify fuel tanks and hot work with the operator. Your insurance must cover winter storage risks - otherwise there is a risk of recourse.
2. personal protective equipment (PPE)
Goggles, gloves, hearing protection and sturdy shoes are mandatory. Wear close-fitting, non-synthetic clothing for grinding or welding work. Have a spare ready.
Quick checklist: Before the start
- Read the hall rules?
- Insurance suitable for winter storage?
- PPE complete?
Fire protection: averting the top dangers
3. prohibit smoking and open fires
"No smoking" is written everywhere - for good reason. Open flames ignite flammable substances in a flash. No exceptions, not even for "quick cigarette breaks".
4. remove flammable substances
Petroleum, petrol, spirit or gas from on board! These are not only flammable, but also explosive. Empty the tanks or not? Clarify with the operator. Only store minimal quantities at the workplace.
5. exclude heaters
Gas radiators, fan heaters, oil stoves or boat heaters are taboo. This also includes electric oil radiators. Use indoor heating - or freeze.
6 Handle colours, resins and cloths correctly
Residues of paints, adhesives or resins are flammable. Take away or dispose of properly. Oil-soaked cloths in metal containers with lids.
7. place fire extinguishers
Per 150 m² hall: 6 kg powder extinguishers on walls. Hang your own overboard (keep escape routes clear). Practise using them in training sessions.
Electrics and electricity: avoid short circuits
8. remove battery chargers
Halls are not ventilated enough - charge batteries at home. Remove and take with you!
9. secure the power supply
Overloading by many consumers leads to cable fires. Unwind tested cable drums completely, no cascades or coils. Check RCDs. Pull the plug or switch off the power after working hours.
10. check tools
Repair damaged insulation. Pull the plug after work.
Tidiness and cleanliness: eliminate tripping hazards
11. dispose of waste correctly
Rubbish attracts vermin and mould, damp cloths can burn. Use sealable containers. Tidy up the baking box.
12. avoid planning
Easily flammable tarpaulins spread fire. Choose flame-retardant alternatives or omit them altogether.
13. waste oil disposed of properly
Environmental penalties may be imposed for leakage or incorrect disposal. Take to the recycling centre immediately.
Scaffolding and ladders: preventing falls
14. stabilise ladders
Approved models with wide supports. Secure against slipping (no wedges!). Tie to the boat. Ergonomic rung spacing.
15. certified work platforms
Do-it-yourself scaffolding causes injuries. Buy TÜV-approved.
Escape and emergency: keep routes clear
16. mark escape routes
Never obstruct - not even with benches or sails. Fire brigade access free.
17. ensure lighting
Illuminate the hall, outdoor area and boat. Automatic in the dark.
Theft protection and valuables
18. secure boat
Lock hatches to prevent break-ins (even with ventilation). Take valuable items (plotter, binoculars) with you.
19. insuring tools
Your own winter storage tools are not covered by boat hull insurance - check separate policy. Better to take them with you.
Expert interview: Insurance tips (updated)
20. regular inspections
Check with neighbours monthly: Escape routes, extinguishers, electricity.
Further links:
Last updated: 16 March 2026
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
