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Going down
1.
If the lock is not full open the paddles/sluices in the top gate to allow the water into the lock
from the top pound.
2.
Once the water level inside the lock is the same as the water level in the canal, open the lock
gate and take the boat into the lock. Remember to close the gate behind the boat
3.
Open the sluice gate to allow the water to flow out of the lock
4.
The boat will lower as the water level in the lock falls
5.
Once the water level inside the lock is the same as the water level ahead in the canal, open
the bottom gates and take the boat out.
6.
Remember to close both the sluice gate and the lock gate behind you to preserve water
Basic principles
–
things to remember
Water always flows downhill and lock gates are closed against the pressure of this water. The lock
gates will not open until the water pressure (level) is equal on both sides.
How long does it take?
Passing through a lock will generally take from 10 to 20 minutes, depending how big the lock is and
whether or not it was originally set in favour of the boat (it is always pleasing to meet another boat
coming towards you on the approach to a lock – this boat will have just exited the lock on your level
and therefore the lock will be set for you).