Press Releases
09/30/2026
DEEP Announces Start of Cold-Water Boating Season
All Paddlers Required to Wear Personal Floatation Devices October through May
(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) today announced the official start of the state’s cold-water boating season. Beginning October 1 and continuing through May 31, all paddlers operating kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and rowboats – and their passengers – are required by state law to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) while on the water.
“Paddling on Connecticut’s coastal and inland waterways in the fall is a wonderful way to experience our state’s stunning autumn landscape,” said Acting DEEP Commissioner Emma Cimino. “However, fall also brings cooler air and water temperatures that can pose serious risks. Being prepared starts with wearing your PFD. It’s not only an important safety measure – it’s also the law from October 1 through May 31 for anyone aboard a manually propelled vessel.”
Rapidly dropping water temperatures in the fall can significantly increase the risk of cold‑water shock and hypothermia for anyone who enters the water. Cold water temperatures can quickly impair a person’s ability to swim or self-rescue, even on mild or warm air temperature days. Wearing a PFD dramatically increases the chance of survival if a paddler capsizes or unexpectedly enters the water.
“A properly fitted PFD is the single most important piece of safety equipment on the water, and we encourage all boaters to wear a PFD whenever they’re on the water. During the cold-water season it’s not just a smart thing to do – it’s required. Paddlers found not wearing their PFD between October 1 and May 31 may receive a $75 infraction,” said Peter Francis, DEEP Boating Division Director.
DEEP encourages paddlers to take additional precautions during the cold-water months, including:
- Dressing in layers suitable for immersion, such as dry suits or wetsuits
- Staying close to shore whenever possible
- Letting someone know your float plan and expected return time
- Carrying a waterproof communication device
- Checking weather and water conditions before heading out
DEEP also reminds paddlecraft operators to be aware of the new law (Public Act 26-60) which requires all unregistered vessels being used on Connecticut waters to be marked with or have attached to it current and valid contact information for the owner of such vessel. This identification can save precious time for first responders conducting a search and rescue operation by determining whether a free-floating boat is a true emergency or just a lost vessel. Tips on how to comply with the new law can be found on this PDF.
To learn more about cold water boating and paddling in Connecticut, visit the DEEP Boating Division website or by email at DEEP.Boating@ct.gov.
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Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-4100