Posted September 14, 2017
Did you know life jackets are required for cold weather kayaking in five states including Massachusetts? From September 15th through May 15th life jackets are required, yes mandatory, for all person’s kayaking and canoeing on Manchaug Pond and all other Massachusetts waterways. It is not enough to have the life jacket in the boat, all persons on board a canoe or kayak must wear a life jacket/PFD at all times.
Seasonal cold water temperatures combined with rough water, rain and windy conditions which occur suddenly on a lake, even 380 acre Manchaug Pond, leave a boater at risk. Your safety is of utmost concern, don’t be caught of guard! Compliance with state boating rules and regulations are enforced with safety inspections performed regularly by town, state and environmental police at Manchaug Pond’s public access boat ramp and on the water.
Visit our Safe Boating page for your safety check list, boating rules and regs and courses, and where to report an accident/incident. If cold weather boating in the other states of Connecticut, Maine, New York, and Pennsylvania, check the local laws to make sure you are in compliance as dates and requirements vary.