05/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/16/2024 13:09
05/16/2024
(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 Dayon 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 statisticsshow 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:
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:
DEEP Communications
[email protected]
860-424-3110