State agencies share safe boating tips for summertime
June 26, 2024 | From News Releases 
Summertime on the Waterbury Reservoir. Photo by Gordon Miller
As boaters visit Vermont’s lakes and ponds over the Fourth of July holiday, state officials are issuing reminders for safety and protecting the environment.
Recently released 2023 U.S. Coast Guard data show that alcohol use remains the primary known contributing factor in recreational boater deaths. In addition, 85% of those who drowned in a recreational boating incident were not wearing a life jacket.
The Vermont Warden Service, Vermont State Police and other local law enforcement agencies will be partnering with the National Association of Boating Law Administrators and the U.S. Coast Guard by participating in Operation Dry Water heightened awareness and enforcement weekend which takes place July 4 – 6 next week.
Operation Dry Water is a national awareness and enforcement campaign focused on reducing the number of alcohol- and drug-related incidents and fatalities and fostering a stronger, more visible deterrent to alcohol and drug use on the water.
“It’s always important to remind people that operating a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and can lead to serious injuries, death, property damage and legal consequences,” Game Warden Sgt. Jenna Reed said.
“The July Fourth holiday means time on the water for boaters in Vermont and across the United States. With an increased public presence on the water, the data show an increase in the number of boating incidents and fatalities that take place during this time. We want everyone to be safe and responsible while having a good time on Vermont’s waterways,” she added.
“Wearing a properly fitting, Coast Guard-approved life jacket is one of the easiest steps you can take to improving your safety on the water,” said Vermont State Police Boating Law Administrator Al Johnson. “New life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange PFDs of the past. There are also innovative options such as inflatable life jackets that improve mobility and flexibility for activities including boating, fishing, paddling or hunting, and the new styles are much cooler in the warmer weather.”
State police and the warden service encourage the public to enjoy Vermont’s waterways this summer with reminders to take pictures and make memories while also being safe by boating sober and wearing a life jacket.
Boating safety tips
The Agency of Natural Resources and partners offer tips on safety, complying with state boating regulations and ways to protect Vermont’s natural resources.
“Our state’s lakes and ponds offer exceptional recreational opportunities, clean drinking water, and outstanding fish and wildlife habitat,” said Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Jason Batchelder.
Here are some tips for enjoying recreation on Vermont’s lakes and ponds in a safe and environmentally friendly way.
Before boating:
Ensure your boat is registered.
Bring the right safety gear for people, boats, watercraft, or vessels.
Clean, drain, and dry boats before getting into the water to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Check the weather forecast, get familiar with known hazards, and bring a map.
Get to know Vermont’s boating laws and rules such as the Use of Public Waters Rules, including Vermont’s new wakesports rule that takes effect this boating season.
Read the access area signage for updates.
While boating:
Wear a life jacket.
Drive or operate boats at a no wake speed (or 5 mph) within 200 feet of the shoreline; swimming areas; someone in the water; a canoe or other boat; an anchored or moored boat containing an individual; and anchorages and docks.
Limit wakesports using wakeboats to defined wakesports zones.
Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or any other intoxicating substance.
Follow all navigational rules when coming across other boats.
Operate boats in a careful and responsible manner.
Always respect public and private property.
After boating:
Secure and properly dispose of trash or recycling.
Clean, drain, and dry boats after getting out of the water to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Maintain boats often to ensure safety and to prevent gas and oil spills.
View the Boating Resource Guide for more tips and to learn more about the rules.
The Vermont State Police Marine Division and the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department Warden Service enforce the Use of Public Waters Rules. Members of the public may report any issues or concerns related to violations of these rules to either agency. Contacts: Sgt. Jacob Metayer of the state police Marine Division at 802-878-7111 or Jacob.Metayer@Vermont.gov or Sgt. Jenna Reed of state Warden Service at 802-878-7111 or Jenna.Reed@Vermont.gov.