Trailering: It’s a skill that needs to be practiced
By Kay Lori Public Affairs Officer USCG-AUX Flotilla 75 Ruskin
 

Ever spend some time at the boat ramp?  It can evoke all the emotions of the theatre.  Pathos, humor, drama, action, and possible entries to the “Worlds funniest video’s” thrown in for good measure.  Why do many people make the boat ramp a day’s entertainment at rock bottom prices?  Because many boaters just don’t practice, don’t plan, and don’t expect the unexpected.
 

Practice

To do something well, you need to practice.  Pick a large parking lot and set-up cones or empty plastic garbage pails and practice backing into a “spot”.  This spot could be a parking spot or the side of a boat ramp.  In either case, you need to be able to control your vehicle and trailer to make an effortless entry into the ramp, and then releasing your boat.
 

Planning

Plan each step of your boat launch before you leave your driveway.  Do you have new “crew”, someone who hasn’t been boating with you?  If so, spend some time with them so they know exactly what will happen at the boat ramp, and what will be required of them.  It is a great idea to perform this in an out of the way place (not on the ramp itself) , so your tires and bearings cool down before entering the water.  Make sure you’ve prepared the boat before you head down the ramp, by removing the tie-downs, placing lines in the appropriate places, and double-checking your sea-cock and drain plug.  Make sure everyone knows exactly where they will walk the boat, and remember to secure the boat to the dock, so it doesn’t float away.
 

Safety

Every step of the way, during planning, during practice, and especially during execution, you need to be ever mindful of safety.  Remember the safety chain (making sure it’s either secured when trailering or unsecured at the bottom of the launch ramp).  Don’t let anyone get behind the boat and trailer or between the boat and the dock.  Before you leave home, make sure you check your tires, and hubs/bearings.  Make sure they are greased, filled and in good working condition.  Also, make sure to check your lights and  your brakes.  Remember, a safe trip is the best trip.
 

Courtesy and Common Sense

It never hurts to be courteous to your fellow boaters.  These people are a great resource while you and your boat are in the water or at the ramp.  You’ve heard of road rage? There is also “ramp rage.”  Don’t hog the ramp.  Don’t hog the parking lot.  Don’t tie up the wash station.  If everyone shows a little courtesy, the process of unloading and loading of all the boats will go smoothly and safely.  Last and certainly not least, use common sense.  Don’t use your hands and feet, or life jackets, to fend the boat off from the dock – use high quality fenders instead.  Keep your cool, even if someone cuts in line.  Any confrontations aren’t worth the trouble. 

To learn more about trailering and boating safety, why not take a boating safety course?  For more information about safe boating courses, call the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 75 Ruskin at 813-677-2354.  You can even participate in a Free Vessel Safety Inspection while you prepare to go out on the water for a day of fun and sun!