In the southeastern states of Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, freshwater and saltwater boat ramps are jam-packed week after week. Whether you are a fisherman, cruiser, or watersport enthusiast, the boat ramp is commonplace because of the need to launch and retrieve the vessel. Even the most experienced boaters are susceptible to the dangers of ramps. What are the top five boat ramp dangers?

Slippery Boat Ramps

Are boat ramps slippery? Boat launches are incredibly slippery. The combination of water and algae growth makes for a treacherous incline when laughing and retrieving watercraft. 

The process of reversing the trailer down the ramp and driving up the incline leads to vehicles becoming submerged in lakes and coastal waters. Unfortunately, the driver loses control of the truck, and as a result, it slides out of control.

While the loss of a vehicle is unimaginable, injuries are sustained to people due to slips and falls. Use extra caution when releasing the boat from the trailer. Head injuries from a fall can lead to unconsciousness, thus increasing the risk of drowning. 

Boat Launch Inclines

The incline of a boat ramp is most often between twelve and fifteen degrees. Although it sounds minimal, it is in fact slopped substantially. 

The second danger is failing to properly place the tow vehicle in park and engage the parking brake. Believe it or not, trucks wind up swimming in the water more often than most would be led to believe.

One of the most crucial aspects of safely launching the vessel is to stop the vehicle thoroughly, shift into park, and then apply the parking brake. Always remember never to feel rushed despite long lines and impatient boaters. The consequences of rushing can be significant. 

Securing The Boat To The Ramp Dock

The hustle and bustle of a busy ramp cause boat owners to become flustered and miss simple steps. 

Those who boat independently must handle all of the launching and retrieval tasks. Once the boat is in the water, remember to secure the vessel to the dock while parking the tow vehicle. Unfortunately, feeling rushed can lead the boat owner to miss this crucial step to find the boat drifting off into the abyss. 

Tow Vehicle Security

Thieves take advantage of boaters because they know that the watercraft will be on the water for extended amounts of time. 

Boat ramps are busy places during the day with little to no theft; however, once the launch clears out in the early evening, boaters who remain on the water during the evening hours are susceptible to theft.

Once the boat is in the water and the vehicle is parked, remove valuables, position the truck in a well-lit area, and lock the doors. 

Reckless Boat Owners

Believe it or not, the people around you create the highest amount of risk to both you and your boat and vehicle. 

The population of unqualified boat owners is significant and in particular on the weekend. We call this group of people weekend warriors. Remain clear of those who appear to be confused about the process of launching and retrieving a vessel because they, in fact, cause the most damage. 

To put it simply, protect yourself, your truck, boat, friends, and family. Remember, not everyone is responsible and understands the process. 

Head To The Boat Ramp Understanding The Five Dangers

Pressure mounts with long lines, and as a result, people become impatient and rush fellow boat owners. Keep in mind to take your time because mistakes occur when feeling the pressure. The task of launching and retrieving a boat is a routine that must be followed each and every time. Never risk life and property, so remember to keep these five dangers in mind always at a boat ramp.Â