DEEP launches campaign to promote boating safety

As outdoor temperatures rise and more state residents take to the water in boats, state officials are conducting a campaign to ensure they know that the water doesn’t get warm nearly as fast.

“We want boaters to enjoy their time on the water and understand the risks of cold water, particularly during this time of year,” said Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes.

According to the department, in the spring the sun warms the air much faster than the water, creating a potentially dangerous situation for boaters who aren’t aware of the difference.

“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,” said Peter Francis, director of DEEPs Boating Division.

The department said the campaign it conducted in 2023 was recognized by the National Association of State Boat Law Administrators (NASBLA) with an award for greatly contributing to recreational boating safety.

One of the most critical topics the department plans to focus on is that of life jackets, and how wearing one can significantly increase chances of survival during an unexpected cold water immersion event while boating, the department said. All operators and passengers in manually propelled vessels are required to wear properly fitting life jackets from Oct. 1 through May 31 in Connecticut, according to the department.

The campaign also will touch on the following tips, officials said:

• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

• Check the weather before your trip and be honest about your experience level.

• Look out for and avoid floating debris.