DEEP Launches Cold Water Safety Campaign Before Boating Season

Campaign aims to educate boaters on dangers of springtime boating, safety equipment, and more.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:21pm

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The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) in Connecticut is launching a cold water safety campaign to prepare boaters for the cold water temperatures before the start of the spring boating season. The campaign will run from the beginning of spring through the end of May and focus on educating boaters on the risks of cold water immersion, the importance of wearing life jackets, and other safety precautions.

Why it matters

With the arrival of warmer spring weather, many boaters are eager to get back on the water. However, DEEP wants to ensure that boaters are aware of the continued dangers posed by cold water temperatures, which can be life-threatening even for strong swimmers. The annual campaign is an important safety initiative to reduce accidents and fatalities on Connecticut's waterways.

The details

DEEP's Boating Division is leading the Cold Water Safety campaign, which will emphasize key safety tips such as following life jacket laws, wearing appropriate clothing, filing a float plan, and properly maintaining boats and equipment. The campaign will be promoted across DEEP's social media channels in the coming months.

  • The Cold Water Safety campaign runs annually from the beginning of spring through the end of May.
  • Connecticut law states that anyone aboard a paddle craft is required to wear a life jacket from Oct. 1 to May 31.

The players

DEEP

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the state agency in Connecticut responsible for overseeing boating safety and regulations.

Peter Francis

The Director of DEEP's Boating Division, who is leading the Cold Water Safety campaign.

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What they’re saying

“Spring marks the start of another great boating season. DEEP's priority is to make sure boaters are properly equipped for their time on the water, and our annual Cold Water Safety campaign raises awareness about the risks of cold water.”

— Peter Francis, Director of DEEP's Boating Division

The takeaway

The Cold Water Safety campaign is a crucial annual initiative by DEEP to promote boating safety and prevent accidents and fatalities on Connecticut's waterways, especially during the transition to warmer spring weather when water temperatures can still pose a serious threat.