The Great Outdoors
Don't overlook winterizing your boats and watercraft

Although we likely won't see ice on Lake Martin, that doesn't mean your boat and watercraft are safe from the cold. Deep cold temperatures, like we experienced last year, can have a disasterous effect.

Unlike our cars, which have closed water circulation (cooling) systems containing anti-freeze, most boats and watercraft circulate the water they're in. At the end of the season, much of that water is trapped in the engine, whether your boat is in the water or out. When it gets really cold, that's not good, and can create the need for very expensive repairs. We hear stories all the time from distraught boat owners who waited too long, and a hard freeze has cracked an engine block or brought other damage.

Such repairs can run into the thousands of dollars. Winterizing your boat and watercraft helps eliminate the freezing risk, and includes other maintenance to get them safely through the winter. And, it's a whole lot cheaper than repairs. Russell Marine is currently offering specials on winterization packages, as we're entering the cooler months. Call any Russell Marine location, visit their website or download and return the winterization form. It also contains pricing for various types of engines and watercraft. Don't let Old Man Winter bite you. Schedule your boat winterization today.

Russell Marine seasonal hours
Naturally, as fewer boaters are out on Lake Martin, Russell Marine adjusts its hours according to the season. We'd hate to disappoint you when you need us, so please take note of the hours below.

Now through October 16
Sunday: 9am to 4pm
Monday: 9am to 5pm
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Saturday: 9am to 5pm

October 17 through March 12
Sunday & Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Friday: 9am to 5pm
Saturday: 9am to 4pm

Holiday hours
Thanksgiving: Closed November 25-29
Christmas: Closed December 24-27
New Years: Closed December 31 through January 3