We have these steps. We usually just set the steps on the edge of the deck and put the sand bag on the shelf. Then we each hold onto one of the sides and slowly lower them into the water. Same thing to pull them out, we never get in to do either. Just make sure that as you put them in the little "feet" on either side don't fall off, and that you have them out far enough they don't scrape the wall. We love these steps, they came with our pool. We've never had a problem with algae growing around them like our friends who have the wedding cake steps. I'd take a pic, but they're covered by the solar cover.