Retrieving the RWC

Choose a retrieval site using deeper water, inshore gutters, or the base of a rip (if safe).
Consider factors like rocks, reefs, drop-offs, currents, beach shape, swell size, shore break, shallow sandbanks, and swimmers/surfers.
Take into account RWC weight, trailer design, and beach conditions (e.g., dry or aerated sand).
Define the RWC retrieval area with signs and cones in accordance with your local SOPs.

Brief personnel on retrieval plan if required.
Position the RWC out of the wave area, stern facing the sea. If using a rear facing trailer, ensure sled is secured out of the way.
Reverse the trailer down the beach using a spotter where possible.
Attach the winch cable to the RWC.
If possible, detach the RWC trailer from the tow vehicle, lift the trailer to align with the RWC and place skids/ rollers under the RWC.

Any extra personnel can assist with retrieval by holding the RWC level.
Winch the RWC onto the trailer.
Reattach the trailer to the tow vehicle and secure with a safety chain, (dependent on trailer configuration).

Identify possible hazards at the ramp such as rocks, reefs, drop-offs, wind, current, tide, and other ramp users.
Take care around boat ramps as there will be little grip underfoot below the waterline.
Typically a boat ramp retrieval should be conducted with two members. One to drive the tow vehicle and one to retrieve the RWC.

Secure the RWC at the boat ramp pier.
Retrieve the vehicle and reverse the trailer into the water, ensuring sufficient depth.
Set up the trailer by unwinding the winch and leaving the winch cable/strap in an accessible location.
Navigate/move the RWC to the trailer.
Connect the RWC to the winch cable/strap fitting.
Winch the RWC onto the trailer.
Connect the safety chain.
Remove the sled if required, then drive the trailer off the ramp.
If towing by road, prepare trailer and RWC for road towing by ensuring it is securely tied-down.

During this retrieval the Operator will remain on board the RWC and drive the RWC onto the trailer.

Firstly retrieve the vehicle and reverse the trailer into the water, ensuring sufficient depth.
The Operator will align the RWC with the trailer to avoid damaging light fittings or the hull.
The Operator will approach slowly and power up gently to move the RWC into an appropriate winch position.

The second member will secure the winch strap to the RWC and winch the RWC onto the trailer.
The winch operator should keep the winch tight and lock it to prevent unravelling.
Once the RWC is secured the Operator will kill the engine
The winch operator will secure the safety chain and d-ring to the RWC.
The RWC Operator should disembark the RWC.
As appropriate the RWC Operator and second member should remove or secure the rescue sled before clearing the boat ramp.