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Chapter 7
LAUNCHING
Serious accidents can occur at the launching ramp.
Therefore, it is imperative you be alert and attentive during
launching and docking activities. Study the ramp area and
surrounding water for any potential hazards, such as a
short ramp or one with a drop off at the end. If you are
uncertain of the conditions, ask someone else who has
just used the ramp if there are any peculiarities to the
area.
Attach 2 lines, one each at the bow and stern, to control
your boat once it is off the trailer. If you need additional
fenders to keep the sides of the boat from banging against
walls, put those on as well
Unhook the stern tie-downs and the winch line to the
bow. Unplug the trailer harness connector so the trailer
lights won’t blow out when they come in contact with
the water.
When backing in, have someone assist, giving the palms
up stop signal when the boat is in deep enough water to
float off, or when the rear wheels of your vehicle approach
the water’s edge.
After your boat is floating freely, position it clear of the
trailer before pulling the trailer out of the water. If there
is no one to help you, secure one of the lines you’ve
attached from the boat to the dock and use the other line
to pull the boat off the trailer. After tying the boat off,
pull the trailer out of the water.
!
AVOID BODILY INJURY !
BOAT RAMPS ARE VERY SLIPPERY.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WALK OR STAND
ON AN ANGLED BOAT RAMP.
AVOID LOSING VEHICLE TRACTION!
DO NOT ALLOW REAR WHEELS
TO ENCOUNTER SAND OR SLIPPERY
CONCRETE CONDITIONS.
!
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