Paddlers On CT River, North Central Connecticut Lakes Take Note: Life Jackets Required

NORTH CENTRAL CONNECTICUT — Those using non-motorized craft on bodies of water like the Connecticut River, Bolton Lake, Coventry Lake, Crystal Lake and Staffordville Lake are required to wear a life jacket this time of year, according to a reminder sent Wednesday by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

DEEP officials said state law requires anyone operating a canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard or other manually-propelled vessel between Oct. 1 and May 31 must wear a personal floatation device.

"While the warm days can be inviting, Connecticut’s lakes, ponds, and rivers start to cool quickly, and boaters can get into unintended trouble if they end up in the water. Regardless of the type of vessel or where a person operates their vessel, a fall into cold water can turn serious very quickly," DEEP officials said.

They said a person’s ability to swim can be compromised in cold water, sometimes in just minutes.

"That’s why safety equipment like wearing a properly fitting life jacket is so critical – and it is the law. Connecticut’s waterways are a treasured resource, and fall is one of the most beautiful times to enjoy them. But cold water can be unforgiving, and a simple accident can become life-threatening in just minutes," DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. "Wearing a properly fitted life jacket isn’t just the law – it’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones while you are on the water."

DEEP Boating Division Director Peter Francis advised that, before heading out, paddlers should take a few minutes to check the weather, file a float plan with a friend or family member, and make sure they you have the right clothing and communication tools.

The DEEP provided some additional boating safety tips that fall paddlers should heed:

• Wear Your Life Jacket. Choose a US Coast Guard-approved and properly sized PFD. Be sure that it fits correctly and is approved for its intended use.
• File a Float Plan. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Maintain a Proper Lookout. As fall waters rise, debris may be floating down rivers and into Long Island Sound, so paddlers should be especially vigilant to look for and avoid floating debris.
• Dress Appropriately. The correct clothing can keep you comfortable, extend your season, and may save your life. In cold weather, dress in layers – outer layers that repel water and inner layers that retain body heat if you get wet.
• Bring a Communication Device. Always carry a phone in a waterproof case and/or a marine VHF radio to make contact in case of emergency.
• Put Contact Information on your Boat. Attach an “If-Found” sticker to your vessel or write the owner’s contact information on the vessel. This contact information can help rescuers locate you faster should an emergency occur and the vessel is found unattended.