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| Mastering The Shinnecock Locks
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Locks are designed to raise and lower boats from one water level to another, allowing vessels to travel upstream and downstream. The locks are open 24 hours a day. However based on prevailing tide conditions, the locks may be closed in either direction for intervals of 10-15 minutes at a time. The lock operator controls all movement of boats through the lock by light signals or horn devices. All canal locks and lift bridges monitor marine radio channel 13 and cellular phones. The following are tips and suggestions for a safe and pleasureable trip through the locks; locking through is easy!
Approaching the Lock. When approaching the lock, boaters should stop at a safe distance and follow specified signals. Boaters must give three (3) distinct blasts on the horn, whistle, or othersignaling devices.
Lock operators will reply with lights in the following manner:
Keep the channel near the lock gates clear and allow boats departing or entering the lock a safe and easy passage. Be patient if lock staff are not ready to lock you through immediately since they often have other water management duties. Entering the lock. On entering the lock chamber, vessels must proceed under control at a safe reduced speed. All boats bust be equipped with adequate mooring lines and fenders. Lock operators are not required to handle or furnish lines. As you near the walls of the lock chamber, have your crew members ready to loop their lines around the snubbing posts, lock wall laddres, and tie lines; be sure to loop, do not tie your lines or your boat may be left hanging or damaged as the water level changes. Be alert to other boats entering behind you and move forward if necessary. Serious injury can result from using your hands or feet to fend off a wall. Use a boat hook, oar, or paddle. Line handlers should wear PFDs. Passengers who are not involved should remain seated. In the Lock Chamber. Follow directions of the lock operator and when safely positioned against the chamber walls with lines looped, turn off your engine (but leave the bilge blower on) and do not smoke or operate open flame appliances. Never leave your boat unattended in the lock.
Exiting the Lock.
As soon as the water in the lock chamber reaches the proper level, the gates will be opened, boaters should case off all lines and proceed at a reduced speed to exit the chamber in station order. Remember to observe posted speed limits and stay clear of dams in lock areas.
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