Rideau Canal Waterway - Lockstation Safety


		Lockstation Safety

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Lockstation Safety Rideau Canal NHS of Canada
The following is taken directly from the Parks Canada publication, "Lockstation Safety."

Learn the history, relax with nature, experience its charm - SAFELY.

While hazards do exist, taking reasonable precautions can minimize your risk of personal injury. Caution and self-reliance are essential, along with a knowledge of the hazards, experience in avoiding them and having a plan in case of an emergency.

GENERAL

Rideau Canal employees are on site during operating hours (see fees & schedules page) between mid-May and mid-October. There is at least one staff member trained in first aid and CPR who is ready to help and/or contact emergency services in case of an emergency. While at a lockstation, talk to the staff about possible hazards of the site and discuss any safety concerns you may have.

Safety equipment at a lockstation includes fire extinguishers, life rings and a first aid kit. The lock building and equipment is secured after operating hours. The life ring is accessible and is to be used only in the case of an emergency, not for any kind of recreational use – this ring could save a life.

Communication with emergency services is only available during operating hours. Although there are public phones in the vicinity of some lockstations, this is not always the case and visitors should carry a cell phone when lockstaff are not available and dial 911. Cell phone reception can vary from site to site so check with the staff on site.

In case of emergency, it is imperative that you are able to clearly and specifically identify your location to emergency rescue services. Preparing yourself with this information in advance, in case of an emergency, could save a life.

Maintenance of a lockstation is an on-going requirement. While on site, be aware of work in progress (i.e. temporary closure of an area for repairs, or slippery floors in washrooms after being mopped). Notify staff immediately of any safety-related maintenance issues you feel require attention. We appreciate your assistance in keeping our lockstations safe.

LOCK CHAMBERS AND LOCK OPERATION

We invite you to read our brochure “How A Lock Works" (see Documents Page) which is available at all lockstations. Locking a boat through a lock is a fascinating process. While watching a lockage, please:

stay clear of the lock operating devices (gate and sluice crabs);
watch your footing along the sides of the lock to be sure not to trip over cable anchors; (While all questions are welcomed by the staff, there are critical times during the lockage when the staff must devote their full attention to the vessels. We as for your patience and staff will answer questions once these critical times pass.)
do not lean over the water, open sluice valves create excessive turbulence in the lock, increasing the risk of drowning if someone were to fall into the lock;
be sure of your footing and hold the railing firmly, while crossing to the other side of the lock, on top of the lock gate;
do not cross the gate during a lockage; and
because fumes may accumulate in the lock chamber, do not smoke.

CHILDREN AT LOCKSTATIONS

Young children enjoy visiting a lockstation. It is an ideal place to picnic, play and watch boats. Caregivers must be aware however, that although the lockstation has a park-like atmosphere, it is a functional lockstation and will present some definite hazards. Of particular concern is the obvious risk of falling into a lock chamber, either from the side or while crossing a lock gate. A less obvious hazard, is the "sluice crank" - while under pressure, the sluice arm, if released from its hold, has the power to fatally injure a small child.

Other considerations include protecting your child from excessive exposure to heat and sun, and how to safely approach a dog on leash, if you choose to allow them this freedom. Some naturalized areas may be home to plants that are poisonous or can cause great discomfort ie. Poison ivy.

For their safety:
Children should not be at a lockstation without parental/caregiver supervision at all times.

SWIMMING

While there is no formal definition for the term heat wave, we all know what it feels like B hot, humid and energy sapping. It is only natural that during these times, people search out ways to cool off. Swimming is one good option, but swimming at a lockstation or around a dam is not. Swimming in the navigation channel is like playing in the traffic on a busy street. Boat operators may not see you, and you therefore risk the boat running into or over you, causing major injury or drowning. Even at times when there is little or no boat traffic, you must still consider the following:

zebra mussels line the walls of the lock chambers, basins and docks. Their shells can easily cut your hands and feet as you attempt to climb from the water;
clam shells and other debris on the bottom may be sharp and cause injury to your feet; and
storm water pollution, particularly after heavy rains in urban areas may cause unsafe levels of E.coli bacteria in the water. Parks Canada does not test canal water for bacteria levels to ensure it is safe for swimming.
Swimming near a dam is very dangerous. (See section on Water Control Dams)

It is illegal to dive, jump, scuba-dive, swim or bathe in a navigation channel or within 40 m of a lock gate or a dam in a historic canal.

WATER CONTROL DAMS

Stay Clear, Stay Safe: Dams are not safe places for recreation or fishing.

A spot that looks calm and safe one moment can become dangerous within a few seconds as water levels and flows change, often without warning. Waters above dams are particularly dangerous as excess water is released through the dam; the fast-moving water creates dangerous turbulence and strong undercurrents. The draw of the dam could act as suction, trapping you against the structure below the surface, causing death.

DOMESTIC ANIMALS

Pets are part of the family and are welcome at the lockstations. However, for the comfort and safety of others and the safety of your pet, we ask you to do the following:

keep your pet restrained by a leash no longer than 3m (or confined in a container or enclosure);
dispose of its excrement in manner that does not annoy or inconvenience other visitors;
ensure the behaviour of your pet does not interfere with other visitors= enjoyment of the site; and
be sure they do not harass wildlife (i.e. birds, squirrels and chipmunks).

CAMPING

Lockstations are not designed to accommodate camping. There are no designated camp sites, or showers and limited waste management (holding tanks) capability. Therefore, camping is restricted to boaters and organized cycling or hiking groups under the authority of a valid permit.

FIRES

Ground fires are not permitted except in a BBQs. Many lockstations provide BBQs for visitors’ use, or you can bring and use a personal BBQ. However, if it is not gas or propane, please check with lock staff on how and where. to dispose of the coals.

ALCOHOL RESTRICTIONS

The possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages is governed by the Liquor Control Act. Possession and consumption of open liquor is permitted only in licensed premises, a residence or a private place. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted on Parks Canada property, including docks and picnic areas. This regulation applies whether arriving by land or by boat.

STROLLING & HIKING

Fresh air, exercise, historical viewscapes and nature are some of the reasons why recreational strolling is popular at Rideau Canal Lockstations. While enjoying the site, there are a few things to be aware of.

Watch underfoot for “sink holes”. These are areas of ground under which, the movement of water causes the ground to erode, leaving a hole or trench. This most commonly occurs along the stone wall lining the waterway, but could happen almost anywhere near the water.
Uneven surfaces are not uncommon, particularly various types of stone surfaces. Proper footwear and sure footing will help prevent the possibility of injury.
Poison ivy is found in many habitats from woodlands to fields and can grow unabated in poorly tended areas such a roadsides or paths. Hikers should learn to recognize this plant in its various stages. An encounter can lead to minor discomfort or even to serious medical problems. Consult the web for excellent photos. Books on wildflowers and shrubs can also be helpful. Best of all, hike with someone who can identify the plant and work at recognizing it.
Sun exposure or dehydration is a risk in hot weather. Be sure to wear sun screen and drink plenty of water.
Rocks along the shoreline can be slippery.

FISHING

· Historic Canals Regulations prohibits fishing within 10 m of a lock or approach wharf. For safety reasons, this regulation must be strictly adhered to when there is a risk to other visitors, when boats are moored in the area or while they are “locking through”. At other times, and at the discretion of the lockmaster, fishing may be allowed within the controlled area.
· Fishing from a water control structure (dam) or from a bridge over a navigation channel is prohibited.
· Both federal and provincial laws regulate fishing in Ontario. To help protect and conserve fish and fish habitat, and avoid possible fines, become familiar with the Recreational Fishing Regulations available from the Ministry of Natural Resources. www.mnr.gov.on.ca/fishing

POTABLE WATER

Potable water is available at all lockstations. The water is tested on a regular schedule in accordance with Parks Canada Water Quality Guidelines. Occasionally an adverse water test requires the water to be boiled before use. A sign is posted at the water source, to warn visitors of possible health hazards until the deficiency can be rectified.

RESPECT the canal, its plants/animals and other people
Please do not:

disturb or feed wildlife
damage or destroy trees or plants
pick or collect natural or historic objects
litter

HAVE A SAFE VISIT !

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