Boat Dock Safety: Essential Tips for a Secure and Accident-Free Dock

Are you concerned about the safety of your boat dock?

Have you ever had a dock mishap?

If you own a boat, you know better than anyone how unpredictable the water and weather can be. Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to ensure the safety and security of your boat dock. 

Go slow when docking. It’s easier to control your boat when going slow. Sharp turns are easier with less water flowing past the rudders. Cruising up to your dock gives you less control, making you more likely to hit it. Hitting your dock with your boat can cause damage to both, and the damage gets worse the faster you go.

Use boat dock bumpers. Boat dock bumpers protect the posts and edges of your dock, so if you do happen to hit it, there will be less damage. Bumpers absorb shock, which protects your dock and boat. Shock absorption also helps protect your passengers. 

Use quality materials. Testing costs a manufacturer money, so if you buy cheap materials, they’re much less likely to have been safety tested. Quality materials are more durable and will last much longer, so even if they’re more expensive up front, they’re cheaper and safer in the long run.

Install lights. You’d be surprised to learn how many accidents can happen from simply not being able to see! Keeping your boat dock well-lit during low-light hours can prevent boat crashes, slips and falls on the dock, and other risks from reduced vision.

Frequently clean and inspect dock. It’s important to routinely check on your dock to make sure there’s no major damage. Catching issues before they become a serious threat not only protects the people using your dock, and prevents costly repairs.

Anchor or store loose items. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget! Anchor down things like seating and tables, or store them when not in use. This will help prevent objects from getting tossed around in rough weather, which can damage both them and the dock. It’s also safer for those using the dock if objects aren’t loose and in danger of falling in the water. Plus, it will prevent you from losing them!

Ready to get your dock safety-ready for the rest of summer?

Alumi-Span Docks uses only the most durable materials and always tests for safety. Call us today at 855-523-2444 or contact us to purchase boat dock bumpers and other secure equipment for your dock.