2015 New York Safe Boating - 37

Loading & Boarding

Before you approach the ramp:

Follow the procedures outlined in the safe loading lesson
on page 27. Clear the dock as soon as you can especially if
others are waiting.

Retrieval
When your voyage is at an end and you return to the ramp,
follow the launch process in reverse.

	Come alongside the wall or dock and tie up.
	Discharge passengers
	Have	someone	get	the	tow	vehicle	from	the	parking	

	Remove all tie-downs.
	Unplug the electrical connection if you don't have

lot and get in line for retrieval. When your turn
arrives, line up your boat with your trailer (which
should be waiting for you on the ramp). The trailer
should be in about the same position as it was for
launching.

electric brakes.

	Make sure the boat plug is in and secure.
	Attach a line to the bow.
	Stow your gear on the boat.
	If	you	have	an	inboard	or	inboard/outboard	motor,	

Keep in mind that wind and current can effect the movement
of the boat as you attempt to reload the boat on the trailer.
This process may be difficult and may require more than one
attempt. Once the boat is properly loaded on the trailer
bunks	or	rollers,	secure	the	winch	and	carefully	exit	the	ramp.	
	
Return to the parking area to complete the tie down process,
secure the boat, and clean up.

check the engine compartment for vapors and start
the blower.

When you launch the boat

	Ensure the ramp area is clear.
	Raise your outdrive.
	Back vehicle down as close to the water as possible.
	Put the transmission in "Park" and set the parking

Before you leave the ramp area:

	Remove and dispose of all weeds hanging from the
boat or trailer.

	Remove the drain plug to release bilge water.
	Drain all bait and live wells and wash the hull if you

brake. If necessary, put chocks behind the rear
wheels of the vehicle.

have time.

These few simple steps will help prevent the spread of
aquatic nuisance species.

Maintenance & Storage
Preventative Maintenance
Developing sound preventative maintenance practices will
reduce the likelihood of problems or emergencies while
underway. A conscientious boater will keep the boat in
good condition by following manufacturer recommended
maintenance schedules and by checking the engine, trailer,
and electronics on a regular basis. In this way you can spot
and correct potential problems before they cut short a day
out on the water. Your marine dealer or mechanic can help
customize this schedule to your particular boat's needs.

	With one person on the boat and one at the winch,
start releasing the winch.

	Lower the engine or outdrive.
	Once the blower has been running for at least 4
minutes, double check for vapors and start the
engine.

	Ensure that water is passing through the cooling

As	we've	emphasized	throughout	this	text,	checklists	help	
establish thorough preparation and a reliable routine. Three
check-off lists will suffice for most boaters: one to use
before each trip; one to use at the beginning of the boating
season; and a post-season check-off list to refer to before the
boat goes into storage for the winter. Use your checklists
consistently and correct problems when you find them. It's
no fun to break down when you're boating, and if you need
a tow ashore, the price can be steep.

system.

	Continue releasing the winch and let the boat roll
off the trailer into the water.

	Secure the boat to the dock.
	Clear your vehicle from the ramp as soon as the
boat is secure.

37
2015 New York Safe Boating

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2015 New York Safe Boating
