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Launching Safely

Boating is great fun, and we all want to do it safely!

To use Falmouth Harbour slipway please call on either 01326 310999 or 01326 310990.  Launching on the slipway is currently not allowed without prior permission.

Please remember that slipways have hazards, not just the water but heavy vehicles, trailers and boats. You may be launching safely, but it’s always possible someone else may not be! So, make sure your day isn’t spoilt by an accident, however small. The best way to ensure that is to brief everyone in your group carefully – especially if you are with children. The Do’s & Don’ts below are designed to help… happy and safe launching!

SOME DO’S

  • Do plan ahead.
  • Do be sure that your vehicle is capable of launching and recovering your boat safely and that your trailer is fit for purpose.
  • Do prepare your boat thoroughly before reversing on to the slipway.
  • Do check your boat engine works before you launch.
  • Do ensure that your trailer has a secondary coupling to the vehicle (wire or chain).
  • Do ensure that your boat is secured to the trailer with a minimum of two connections; a primary line or winch line, and a safety secondary line from bow to trailer.
  • Do keep to one side of the slipway to allow space for other users.
  • Do wear suitable footwear and a lifejacket when you launch.
  • Do ensure that your vehicle is in gear, with engine off, and handbrake firmly on, before leaving it to deal with your boat and trailer.
  • Do be aware of other boats approaching the slipway.
  • Do make sure that members of your party not involved in the launching operation are not allowed on the slipway.
  • Do use the shore linked pontoon for boarding and landing passengers not involved with the launching operation.
  • Do be aware of commercial shipping when leaving the slipway area.
  • Do abide by any instructions given by the Falmouth Haven team… they are for your convenience and safety.
  • Do be patient with other slipway users… they may not be as experienced as you!

SOME DON’TS

  • Don’t allow unsupervised children or pets on to the slipway at any time.
  • Don’t stand behind the trailer at any time during launching.
  • Don’t swim from the slipway or pontoons.
  • Don’t try and catch a winch handle which has spun out of control.
  • Don’t turn your vehicle or trailer on the slipway; this is not permitted.
  • Don’t leave your vehicle unattended on the slipway at any time.