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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05/16/2024

DEEP Encourages Boating Safety for National Safe Boating Week

With Boaters Returning to Connecticut Waterways, DEEP Shares Safety Tips

(HARTFORD) — The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) joins boating safety partners across the country in celebrating National Safe Boating Week from May 18-24, which serves to remind all boaters of the importance of boating safety skills and to prepare for the boating season. This observance week is the annual kick-off of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages responsible boating.

National Safe Boating Week runs the week ahead of the Memorial Day weekend – the unofficial start to the summer boating season – and immediately after Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day on Friday, May 17. During the week, DEEP will focus social media posts on a variety of boating safety information and will also host a few in-person boating safety outreach events.

“Boating is an enjoyable way to spend time outside with family and friends, and Connecticut has a wealth of options on the sound, on our rivers, and in our lakes,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “We want all boaters to get home safely from their trips on the water by being prepared and wearing life jackets.”

U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three out of every four recreational boating fatalities nationwide, and that 85 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets. Connecticut statistics show the same trends.

The following boating safety tips should help to create a safe boating experience for all boaters and ensure that boaters are prepared for the upcoming summer boating season:   

  • Wear Your Life Jacket. The number one piece of advice is to wear life jackets at all times, no matter your boating or swimming ability. Today’s life jackets are more comfortable and lightweight than ever. Putting one on before heading out could save your life.
  • Take a Boating Safety Class. While a boating certificate is only required to operate a power boat or personal watercraft, all boaters – even paddlers – should take a boating safety course to learn about all the requirements, laws, safety equipment, and rules of the road.
  • Check Your Safety Equipment. Boaters should take the time to inspect all safety equipment at least once a season and replace anything that’s damaged or expired.
  • Check Fire Extinguishers and Fuel Systems. Boating fires are generally a springtime occurrence. With a little vigilance, they can be prevented.
  • Get a Vessel Safety Check. DEEP employees are stationed at many State boat launches throughout the summer and will provide this service free of charge. 
  • Avoid Alcohol. Alcohol and boating don’t mix. While on the water, the sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion are all considered stressors which can intensify the effects of alcohol and drugs. This combination can quickly impair a boat operator's coordination, judgment, and reaction time.
  • Check the Weather. While nobody likes when weather interferes with time on the water, boaters should always consider the weather forecast when planning a boating trip and keep an eye out for weather changes while on the water. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website at www.weather.gov is a great place to start.

By adhering to these simple steps and practicing responsible boating you can help create a safer, more enjoyable boating environment for everyone on Connecticut waters.

Look for DEEP’s outreach vessel Prudence on inland and coastal waters during the week. For more information, please visit the DEEP Boating Division website at Boating and Paddling (ct.gov), and for more information about upcoming in-person events, please see the DEEP Boating Division social media accounts:

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Contact

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