Summertime is just around the corner once again, and most water-loving people are just waiting until the water is warm enough to go swimming or take the family boat out for a nice fishing trip.
In many situations, individuals who are using waterways for entertainment and enjoyment will be accessing the water by making use of a dock, and thus will need
what is known as a dock ladder. These nifty modern inventions make it easy for people of all ages and abilities to easily get into the water by simply going up or down the ladder.
WHAT ARE SOME WAYS TO ENSURE SAFETY WHEN USING DOCK LADDERS?
1. MAKE SURE THAT IT IS MOUNTED PROPERLY
This may seem like an obvious step to take, but many people are injured each and every year when the dock ladder that they are using detaches from the dock itself. If this happens while entering or leaving the water, an individual runs the risk of injuring themselves by hitting the dock or by the ladder falling on top of them. Thus, it is key to make sure that all ladder attachments are securely fastened.
2. LOOK OUT FOR SLIPPERY CONDITIONS
Since the dock ladder is used in the water itself, swimmers and boaters should stay vigilant in terms of watching their steps as they use the ladder. Whether the person using the ladder is a swimmer or a diver, they should be sure to grip the handles of the dock ladder tightly and to ease themselves in or out of the water. Divers can be especially at risk due to the extra slipperiness of their flippers as they exit the water, and for this reason it’s often a good idea to remove any diving related footwear before making use of the ladder.
3. WATCH OUT FOR HAZARDS IN THE WATER ITSELF
Even though the surface of the water may appear placid, if the water is not clear it can be hard to see what is going on a few feet under the surface. Before diving off a dock or a ladder, swimmers should make extra sure that there are no dangerous objects such as sunken branches, or even schools of fish beneath the surface.
4. STAY WITHIN THE LOAD SPECIFICATIONS OF THE LADDER
Dock ladder users should avoid over stressing the ladder, and should make sure that kids and young adults are not horse playing with the equipment.Yes, summer is around the corner, and individuals who keep in mind the tips that have been provided stand a great chance of enjoying the water all season without incident or injuries.
As great as these aquatic tools are, like anything else in life people need to be aware of any safety issues that may crop up when using these pieces of equipment. This article will discuss some common safety measures that individuals should take to help ensure the continued health and wellness of their loved ones as they enjoy the beautiful waterways that grace the nation.