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Grnhead99353
09-24-2002, 08:21 AM
Mr. Matthews,

Thank you for your inquiry into our lock departure protocols. Our boats sound a warning signal when they have reason to believe that there is potentially obstructing traffic in the immediate vicinity of the boat's departure area. This signal would be an extended long blast of the boat's horn. A lookout would also be posted to provide visual guidance to the boat operator. In addition the boat would sound 5 or more short blasts (danger signal) if there is any confusion regarding the maneuvering intentions of any specific conflicting traffic.

Please keep in mind it is the responsibility of all boats to maintain a proper lookout. This includes recreational fishing boats. Sound signals may be attenuated by prevailing winds and other ambient noise. Keeping a proper lookout protects boaters at all times regardless of the nature of the sound signal being made.

Safety on the water is a joint effort. No single entity, without the cooperation of all other boats on the water, can ensure waterway safety. We have taken a leadership role working cooperatively with the Coast Guard and its Auxiliary to educate boaters on the joint responsibilities for waterway safety.

I hope this answers your question. Please feel free to contact me directly at 360.693.1491 for any further information.

Best regards,
John Pigott
Port Captain

NAUTI-NOTIONS
09-24-2002, 08:55 AM
so if i read it right there's no requirements as to mandatory sounding upon entering or departing locks?

Miss B Haven
09-24-2002, 09:27 AM
Nope - but it is the LAW that you must avoid a collision if at all possible (regardless of right of way etc. Do consider that avoiding a collison on a freighter or tug and tow means something totally different than in our boats. Not only slow to manuver but if they get out of the channel they will also collide (with the bottom at least). If you were the captain would you rather bang a little guy or run aground or over a bouy? Of course if they don't see you then none of this matters .......... bang, crunch spalsh, holy shipwrecks batman :shocked: :shocked: graemlins/stupid.gif graemlins/stupid.gif !!