What is the first step in launching a boat from a trailer?

The first step in launching a boat from a trailer is ensuring the vessel’s drain plug is in place. This is a crucial safety measure as the drain plug prevents water from entering the boat while it is being launched. If the plug is not in place, water could flood the boat, leading to potential capsizing or sinking, especially if the boat is small or if water accumulates quickly.

While transferring equipment and supplies to the vessel is important, it should inherently follow the securing of the drain plug to ensure that the boat is safe to be launched. Additionally, the other actions listed, such as disconnecting trailer lights and removing tie-down straps, relate to the logistics of the launch but do not directly address the fundamental safety of the vessel itself. Prioritizing the drain plug helps ensure that the boat's integrity is maintained throughout the launching process.