Final answer:
When launching a boat, park near the water to load equipment and gear easily. Clean your boat and follow proper boating practices to protect the environment, such as removing plants and animals and rinsing equipment thoroughly.
Step-by-step explanation:
When getting ready to launch your boat, it is important to park in a convenient location to load your equipment and gear. Ideally, you should park your vehicle and trailer close to the waterfront, such as a boat ramp or a designated loading area. This allows for easy access to the boat and minimizes the distance you need to carry your equipment.
Additionally, it is essential to follow proper boating practices to protect the environment. In Maryland, for example, it is recommended to clean your boat and remove any visible plants, animals, mud, and debris from the hull, propeller, anchor, and trailer before launching into the waters. Draining and rinsing live wells, bilge areas, and coolers, as well as rinsing fishing equipment, boats, trailers, and SCUBA gear, with a hard spray from a garden hose, helps prevent the spread of invasive species and diseases.