There are few things more relaxing than sitting outside on a dock overlooking the water. If you have a waterfront property, your dock is one of your home’s biggest assets. Not only is it a welcoming place to sit and host company, but it is a necessity for boat owners who want to keep their boats close by. Your dock should be built with safety in mind, and there are a few crucial items you will need to do so. Check out this guide for a few things you should consider when building or upgrading.
- Use Non-Slip Surfaces
The first thing owners should do is cover their dock with a high-traction material. Your dock is going to get wet no matter what, and this can cause the surface to become incredibly slippery. This increases the risk of slips and falls. To help prevent injury, install non-slip surfaces such as grip tape strips. These could be applied to your entire dock, but should at least be place on areas that are most likely to get wet.
- Install Steps or Ladders
You and those who use your dock need a safe and sturdy way to get down to the water or your boat. Boat ladders can be installed in one or more places, allowing easy access for yourself and others. Ladders can be customized to fit the needs of your lifestyle. For instance, you can have stairs made specifically for pets and seniors. Also consider ladders that fold up or can be removed if needed.
- Place Lights Around Your Dock
Your dock needs to be able to be seen by pedestrians and boaters alike. You can increase visibility and alert others on the water to your dock’s location by installing lights on it. These lights can serve specifically as safety lights or they can be decorative. As well, consider installing motion sensors to help save energy. When placing lights, make sure to check your state’s boat safety rules, as certain color lights may have specific meanings on the water.
