BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

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Module 05 - Navigation and Right-of-Way Rules

How to Enter and Exit a Lock

Step 1:

Moor your boat at the ‘blue line’ area, located at the entrance of the lock. This tells the lockmaster that you wish to enter the lock.

Step 2:

Wait for any instruction from the lockmaster or waterway personnel - this may include instructions on when to enter, and mooring instructions once you enter the lock.

Step 3:

Proceed slowly and with caution into the lock- the maximum speed in a lock is 10 km/h.

Step 4:

Place crew members at the bow and stern of you boat, prepared to moor the boat. You will use the vertical ‘drop cables’ attached to the walls of the lock to moor the bow and stern of your boat.

Step 5:

Ensure that your boat’s mooring lines are tied loosely around the drop cables to allow your boat to move up or down with the water level. Do not leave your mooring lines unattended.

Step 6:

Turn off your boat’s engine, stop using any fuel burning appliances, and don’t smoke. Ensure that your boat’s ventilation system is turned on.

Step 7:

Once the water level within the lock has reached the proper elevation, the opposite end of the lock will open. Once the lockmaster has instructed you to start your engine, you may proceed with caution out of the lock.