Lake It Easy
Safe Boating Guidelines For Our Small Lake
There’s no place better than Lake Waramaug. But our lake’s small size and unique shape make it a place that requires extra care from all of us. That’s why the Lake Waramaug Association is asking for everyone’s help to “Lake It Easy” and keep the lake safe while you’re on the water this summer.
Here’s a downloadable Lake It Easy flyer.
Boat Safe
In addition to following all boating laws required by the State of CT, on Waramaug remember:
Avoid crowded areas and always give swimmers, paddlers, and sailors more space than you think they need
Recreational boats are heavy and can't make sudden stops - when in doubt, slow down or shut it down
Please be a courteous and responsible boat operator for your safety and the safety of those enjoying the lake with you
Paddle Smart
Paddlers always have the right of way over powered vessels
During peak water activity times, consider paddling closer to shore
Swim Aware
Always swim with a buoy (and a buddy or spotter) in open water
During peak water activity times, consider swimming closer to shore
CT Boating Laws & Regulations Reminders:
Every vessel must, under crowded conditions or in reduced visibility, slow down and operate with careful regard for existing circumstances and conditions
Motorboats may not exceed Slow-No-Wake speed within 100 feet of shore, a dock, pier, float, or anchored or moored vessel. No person shall operate a vessel or cause a waterskier to pass within 100 feet of a flag, buoy, or other device marking the location of an underwater swimmer or diver.
Effective October 1, 2015*, in order to operate a vessel that is engaged in water skiing (defined as when a vessel is used to tow skiers, tubers, or has anyone riding the wake of the vessel whether a tow line is used or not), you must:
Be at least 16 years of age
Have a valid boating certificate issued by CT, MA, NH, NY or RI or U.S. Coast Guard issued vessel operators license
Have a CT Safe Waterskiing Endorsement issued by DEEP
Have a spotter on the boat who is a minimum of 12 years old
Life jackets must be worn by anyone under 13 years old on any vessel
*Exception: If, prior to October 1, 2015, you obtained a valid license issued by the USCG or a valid boating certificate issued by CT, MA, NH, NY or RI, you are not required to have a CT Safe Waterskiing Endorsement.
Did you know…?
…whether on a boat, kayak, canoe, or paddle board, CT State Law requires a properly fitting life jacket for everyone on board - even your dog! It also requires life jackets to be worn by children under 13 years of age and all adults paddling between 10/1 and 5/31.
...the maximum manufacturer-recommended tubing speed is under 25 mph.
Motorized Boating Checklist:
Wearable life jacket for every person on board + one throwable Type IV device
Valid Boating Certificate on board at all times while operating a vessel
Fire extinguisher
Sound producing device
Engine cut-off switch Operational navigational lights
LWA Members: Boating License Course Discount!
Mention you're a member of the Lake Waramaug Association and receive a special discount for your CT Safe Boating Certificate License course! $65 to join a normally scheduled class (normally $85 - a 23% discount) or grab your friends and family for a private group class for 10+ people for the same discounted rate of $65 per person (normally $100pp). Some Zoom classes may be available. Contact Captain Greg Trotta: Sound Environment Associates greg@seadolphin.com 800-510-9995 seadolphin.com
For more comprehensive CT Boating & Water Safety Info:
CT DEEP’s Boating & Paddling Website
2025 CT Boater’s Guide - Rules and Resources
