Safety Tips for Using LakeEze Ladders and Dock Accessories

Enjoying your waterfront shouldn’t come with worry. At LakeEze, our American-made, hand-crafted dock accessories are engineered with patented designs and premium materials to deliver secure, easy lake access for every member of your family. Follow these lake ladder and dock accessory safety tips to prevent accidents, protect your gear, and make every day a great lake day.

LakeEze Ladder - Safety Tips for Installation & Use

Our LakeEze Ladder is designed for secure water access, but safety always begins with correct installation and proper usage.

Choose the Right Location and Water Depth.

For safe and comfortable use, install your LakeEze Ladder in a location where the water covers at least the bottom three to four steps. This ensures easy entry and exit, and allows you to take full advantage of the ladder’s gentle incline and wide, slip-resistant treads.

1. Ideal Water Depth & Step Submersion: For optimal performance and to protect your LakeEze Ladder’s frame and components, select a location with more than 4 feet of water depth. The bottom step of the 5-step ladder extends 44 3/8” below the dock, and the 6-step ladder extends 53 7/8” below, so be sure your chosen spot provides sufficient depth for your selected model.
   
2. Ladder Size Selection: Measure from the top of your dock to the waterline. If the distance is less than 19”, choose a 5-step ladder; if it’s 19” or greater, choose a 6-step ladder.
3. Ladder Width: Ensure your dock accommodates the ladder's 27.5” width and can mount the spring housing 8.5” from the dock edge for proper, safe operation. 
4. Vertical Clearance: If your dock has a roof or overhead structure, confirm there’s enough vertical clearance to safely raise and store the ladder upright after use. The 5-step ladder requires a minimum of 8 feet (86” at peak rotation), while the 6-step ladder requires a minimum of 9 feet (101” at peak rotation). Keep this in mind when choosing a location, especially if you need a 6-step ladder and plan to install under a roof post or low overhang.

The ladder should rest freely in the down position without resting on the lake bottom to avoid potential stress on the ladder. 

Installation. 

1. Before installation, carefully inspect your dock and do not install the ladder on compromised, weak, or damaged decking. The mounting area must be structurally sound and capable of supporting the ladder and its intended use. For guidance, refer to the LakeEze Ladder assembly instructions and video tutorial. 
2. Use all provided stainless steel hardware to mount your ladder onto the dock frame or across multiple deck boards. 
   
3. Tighten bolts with an impact drill using a socket adapter.
4.  For concrete docks, mark mounting holes, then use the included backing plate with a hammer/masonry drill to securely install it. 

Use LakeEze Ladder’s Safety Features for Confident, Everyday Access 

The LakeEze ladder is designed with unique safety features, so that you don’t have to worry about slipping or awkward entry or exits from the water.

1. Step on the first or second rung to release spring tension, then insert the hitch pin to lock the ladder. 
2. Climb facing forward using the gentle 42-degree incline and wide, non-skid steps (11 ¾ tread). 
3. Use the tall handrails or side hoops for stability, and maintain 3 points of contact at all times.
4. Do not exceed weight limits: 350 lbs for 5-step, 300 lbs for 6-step.
5. To maintain slip-resistance and an extended lifespan, always raise your ladder using the patented EzePull technology to prevent algae, barnacles, and slime build-up during periods of non-use.

If installing in saltwater or brackish environments, use our Universal Zinc/Saltwater Add-On Kit. This kit protects your ladder’s aluminum frame and hardware by providing galvanic corrosion resistance-significantly extending the life and appearance of your LakeEze Ladder, even in harsh marine conditions.

LakeEze FlexSteps

The LakeEze FlexSteps are designed to provide a safe, stable, and adjustable transition between dock levels or for boarding watercraft-especially in areas with fluctuating water levels or uneven surfaces. Choose either the 3-step or 4-step model based on your dock height or application needs.

1. Installation: Securely mount FlexSteps to your dock using the included hardware and follow the installation instructions for a stable setup.
2. Safe Use: Always step squarely on the wide, slip-resistant glass-filled nylon treads for secure footing, even in wet conditions. For added safety, ensure the area behind the FlexSteps is clear and remind children not to play or swing on the steps or handrails.
3. Capacity: FlexSteps are built to support up to 350 lbs, providing reliable access for users of all ages and abilities.
4. Maintenance: Periodically rinse the steps with fresh water and keep treads clear of dirt or debris to maintain optimal grip and appearance. FlexSteps require minimal maintenance to stay safe and durable year-round.

LakeEze FlexSteps are engineered to provide a stable, durable transition between dock levels for boarding watercraft or bridging gaps where water levels fluctuate, and are made from the same marine-grade, corrosion-resistant materials as our ladders. 

Quick & Easy Safety Tips for Using LakeEze’s Dock Accessories Properly

LakeEze Swim Stool

Our LakeEze Swim Stool provides comfortable in-water seating and versatile dockside support. For safe use, always install the Swim Stool using the provided mounting kit and follow all assembly instructions closely.

1. Dockside Use: When using the Swim Stool dockside, make sure the mounting pins are fully and securely inserted into the dockside mounting brackets before sitting down. If you’re attaching the stool to a roof post, ensure it is firmly fastened to the post before use.
2. Before Use: Confirm the stool is locked in place and the height is properly adjusted for your needs. Never use the stool if it’s not mounted flat or if the mounting hardware is not fully engaged.
3. Weather Precaution: Do not use the Swim Stool during inclement weather, such as storms or high winds.

LakeEze Dock Box

The LakeEze Dock Box delivers 24 cubic feet of secure, lockable storage and doubles as comfortable dockside seating, all while enhancing the look of your waterfront. Built from heavy-duty, weather-resistant materials and securely fastened to your dock, this dock box is designed for long-term durability and peace of mind.

1. Mind Your Hands: Always watch your fingers and hands when closing the lid to avoid pinching.
2. Lock Up When Away: Use the built-in padlock hasp to secure your Dock Box and protect valuables whenever you’re away from the lake.
3. Easy Maintenance: The Dock Box features drainage holes to help prevent water buildup inside- just check them occasionally to make sure they’re free to drain properly and keep your storage space clean and dry.

With its premium construction, customizable finishes, and thoughtful safety features, the LakeEze Dock Box is more than just storage- it’s a secure, stylish, and practical extension of your dock.

LakeEze Stow & Go

The LakeEze Stow & Go system offers safe and convenient watercraft storage and launch. When operating the integrated winch system to raise and lower your kayak or canoe, keep your hands and feet clear of moving parts to avoid pinching and practice caution when using it. Beyond this, double-check that your kayak or canoe is securely cradled and the system is locked before stepping in or out, and store it above the waterline at an angle to prevent water collection. 

LakeEze Ramp Rack 

The LakeEze Ramp Rack is perfect for organizing water toys. Safely store and prevent deck clutter by assembling and hanging over your dock’s ramp. Just make sure that stored items fit within the 17.25” U-hook and do not exceed the weight recommendations.

Enjoy Safe, Confident Lake Living With LakeEze Ladders & Dock Accessories

With our commitment to quality and innovative design, safe lake days are always within reach. By following these essential tips for installation and use, you’ll get years of confident, worry-free lake living for your entire crew. Ready to upgrade your waterfront? Explore our complete collection or contact our team for expert advice —your safest, most enjoyable lake experience starts with LakeEze.