The mechanical parts and electrical systems in the boat lift are dangerous if they move unexpectedly. This is because the boat lift remote control is compact and easily operated; kids can take the remote control for an ordinary button that will do nothing when pressed.
Protecting the boat lift remote control, restricting access to it, and educating the kids about its dangers are some basic ways to ensure safe usage of the docks. The latest smart remote controls from Lift Mate have an extra safety advantage of enabling the owner to manage access via a mobile app.
Keep the Boat Lift Remote Out of Children's Reach
Controlling physical access to the remote is the very first step in ensuring boat lift safety.
Think about the following good practices:
- Store your remote safely when it is not used
- Don’t keep it with toys, on the table, or other things frequently handled by kids
- Never put the remote in an unlocked boat
- Decide who can operate the lift if it is a smart remote
Protect the Boat Lift Control Box
The boat lift control box also deserves attention. Depending on the equipment, it may contain switches or controls capable of operating the lift directly.
It is inappropriate to give children free access to the control box and its operating switches. Keep the enclosure closed and / or locked, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for keeping electrical parts safe from moisture and weather elements. Be cautious when children are on the dock, and prevent any access to electrical controls.
Instruct Children That the Remote Is Not a Plaything
Physical safeguards work best when combined with clear rules. Even young children can understand a simple instruction such as, “The boat lift remote is for adults only.”
Explain that pressing buttons can cause large equipment to move. Children should stay clear of the lift whenever it is operating and should never experiment with the remote or control box.
Older children can also learn why these rules exist. Understanding the potential consequences can make them more likely to respect the boundaries around boat lift equipment.
Create a Safe Operating Routine
Follow a consistent safety check every day before the boat lift and after docking. Take time to inspect the area rather than assuming everyone is aware that the lift is about to move.
A useful routine includes:
- Check that children and other people are away from the lift
- Confirm that nobody is working on, beneath, or near moving components
- Make sure the boat and surrounding lift area are clear of obstructions
- Keep the boat lift remote under your control while operating the equipment
- Stop the operation immediately if someone enters the operating area
Never assume that children know when the lift is about to move. Give everyone nearby a clear warning before operation.
Can Smart Remote Controls Improve Boat Lift Safety?
A smart boat lift remote can offer more advantages over traditional keychain remotes. They ensure remote access and monitoring, while traditional remotes provide convenient operation. Companies like Lift Mate are offering the most innovative features with their smart boat lift remotes for greater control and authorized access, along with mobile-app-based monitoring. You can also set up connectivity through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or internet. In smart remotes, you can set a security code to add an additional access requirement that help prevent unintended activation, so children cannot activate it simply by finding the remote. You can give guest permission to different users and can revoke it as needed. Moreover, you will get alerts and notifications, while an activity log offers a record of lift activities.
Smart Control: Part of Safe Lift Operation
A smart boat lift remote control can provide better access management, prevent accidental reach by children, and offer greater control. But boat lift owners should still inspect the lift area before operation and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.
Make Dock Safety a Family Habit
Prevention of accidental activation goes beyond just limiting access to buttons. Prevention requires an environment that fosters the understanding of how the machinery operates and when one should keep away from it. It is important for adults to monitor kids who are near the boat lifts, set boundaries, and ensure the lift and its controls are checked regularly.
Check out Lift Mate for a smart boat lift remote control that operates through a mobile app. Set your security PIN code, prevent accidental activation, and keep your child safe.