Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Press Releases

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04/05/2024

DEEP Begins Cold Water Safety Campaign

Reminds Boaters to Prepare Accordingly as Spring Brings Warm Days and Cold Water

(HARTFORD) — With warmer weather in the forecast, and boaters heading to the water on weekends in greater numbers, Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) urges boaters to be prepared for the difference between the warm air and the cold water.

In the spring, the sun warms the air much faster than the water. The water remains cold for much longer. Given the dangers these conditions can present, DEEP will be implementing a Cold Water Safety Campaign over the coming months.

The Cold Water Safety Campaign will include a variety of boating safety tips, actual water temperature readings from waterbodies around the state, and information on DEEP’s in-person boating safety events. A key focus of the focus of the campaign is preparation. DEEP wants boaters to have fun on the water and be prepared for the unexpected to help prevent tragedies. 

“With Connecticut offering so many recreational opportunities on inland lakes and ponds, rivers, and the Long Island Sound, we urge people to take proper precautions when the water is still cold,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “We want boaters to enjoy their time on the water and understand the risks of cold water, particularly during this time of year.”

“We want new and experienced boaters alike to get out on the water and enjoy the warm spring weather – but do so safely!” said Peter Francis, Director of DEEP’s Boating Division. We’ve designed the campaign to convey important and useful information to all boaters so that they can properly prepare for these unique early season conditions.” 

In addition to preparation, DEEP will highlight the critical topic of life jackets. DEEP emphasizes that wearing a life jacket can significantly increase the chances of survival during an unexpected cold water immersion event while boating. All operators and passengers in manually propelled vessels are required to wear properly fitting life jackets from October 1st through May 31st in Connecticut. Life jackets must be U.S. Coast Guard approved and maintained in serviceable condition.

 

Other boating safety topics that DEEP will be highlighting during the campaign include:

  • Always Wear Your Life Jacket!
  • File a Float Plan – Boaters should always let someone know where they are going and when they expect to return.
  • Be Weather Aware – Always check the weather before a trip and be honest with yourself about your experience level.
  • Safety Gear & Equipment – Make sure your safety gear and communication equipment is maintained, charged and working properly. Both Connecticut and federal law require a sound producing device onboard all vessels. 
  • Maintain a Proper Lookout – Boaters should be especially vigilant when they get out on the water at this time of year to look for and avoid floating debris such as damaged docks and logs that may be floating downstream and into Long Island Sound.
  • Go with a Friend – In case of an emergency, try to always bring a helping hand.
  • Following Proper Maintenance Procedures – Before heading onto the water, boaters should ensure all vessel maintenance is up to date and fire extinguishers are not expired. Accidents involving onboard fires or taking on water are generally a springtime occurrence. With a little vigilance, these accidents can be prevented.

In 2023, DEEP’s Cold Water Safety Campaign was recognized by the National Association of State Boat Law Administrators (NASBLA) with the Compass Award. This award recognizes a NASBLA member for initiatives which have greatly contributed to recreational boating safety.

Follow the DEEP Boating Division’s social media accounts for Cold Water Safety Campaign messaging and announcements of DEEP’s boating safety events.

To learn more about cold water boating and paddling in Connecticut, visit the DEEP website at Boating and Paddling (ct.gov).

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Twitter: @CTDEEPNews
Facebook: DEEP on Facebook

Contact

DEEP Communications  
DEEP.communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110