Boating Safety on Long Island Sound

As summer heats up, Madison’s shoreline becomes a hub for boating activities. Whether you’re kayaking along our beaches, sailing from the Surf Club, or heading out on a powerboat from the State Boat Launch, understanding water safety is essential for enjoying Long Island Sound safely.

Local Water Emergency Response

In Madison, water emergencies involve a coordinated response between multiple agencies:

• Madison Hose Company #1 handles on-water rescues with their vessels:
  • Marine 1, docked at West Wharf Beach for quick deployment
  • A Zodiac inflatable that can be transported to different launch points for shore-close emergencies
• Madison EMS provides medical care once patients are brought safely to shore
• Mutual Aid Resources can be activated from surrounding towns including Clinton, Guilford, Branford, Westbrook, and Old Saybrook, as well as the Coast Guard for more serious incidents

Common Boating Emergencies in Our Area

Several preventable incidents occur regularly in Madison waters:

Distressed Paddlers

We frequently respond to kayakers and paddleboarders in distress who have:

• Misjudged their physical capabilities
• Underestimated changing water conditions
• Been caught in tidal currents
• Failed to account for wind shifts that make return journeys difficult

Unmanned Vessel Incidents

One of the most dangerous scenarios we encounter involves boaters being thrown from their vessels without using an engine cut-off switch (formerly called a “kill switch”). This results in unmanned boats continuing to travel at speed, creating serious hazards for other boaters and making rescue more difficult.

Essential Safety Equipment

For All Watercraft

• Life jackets for everyone on board (required by law)
• Communication device (marine radio, cell phone in waterproof case)
• Sound-producing device (whistle, horn)
• Visual distress signals (flares, flashlight)

For Motorized Vessels

• Engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and lanyard/wireless device
• Fire extinguisher
• Navigation lights for operation at night
• CT Safe Boating Certificate (required by law)

For Paddlecraft (Kayaks, Canoes, SUPs)

• “IF FOUND” sticker with your contact information
• Whistle or horn attached to your life jacket
• Bright clothing to increase visibility
• Paddle float and bilge pump for self-rescue

“IF FOUND” Stickers: A Simple Tool That Saves Lives

Each year, unattended kayaks and paddleboards are found adrift on Long Island Sound, triggering expensive and potentially dangerous search operations when no one is actually in danger.

An “IF FOUND” sticker on your paddlecraft allows authorities to quickly:

• Contact the owner to confirm everyone is safe
• Avoid unnecessary search and rescue operations
• Return your valuable equipment to you

If you don’t have an “IF FOUND” sticker, write your contact information and an emergency contact’s information inside your watercraft with a permanent marker in a visible location and cover it with waterproof tape.

These stickers are available through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Visit their website at wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=013-11-01&category=if-found-stickers for more information.

Madison Boat Launch and Access Points

Madison offers several access points to Long Island Sound:

• State Boat Launch at the end of Circle Beach Road (accessible via Neck Road), providing access to Long Island Sound through the East River near the Guilford Town Docks
• The Surf Club Beach for small sailboat launches
• Town Beaches for kayak and paddleboard launches
• Mooring Areas around West Wharf Beach, Madison Beach Club, and East Wharf Beach

Know the Local Hazards

Submerged Obstacles

Long Island Sound along Madison’s shoreline has several areas with submerged rocks, sandbars, and other hazards that may not be visible at high tide. If you’re unfamiliar with the area:

• Operate at slow speeds
• Use updated navigation charts
• Avoid night operation without local knowledge

Rapidly Changing Weather

Weather on Long Island Sound can shift quickly, even on seemingly calm days:

• Check marine forecasts before heading out
• Watch for changing cloud formations and wind patterns
• Have a contingency plan if conditions deteriorate

Tidal Currents

The Sound experiences tidal changes that can create strong currents, particularly challenging for paddlers:

• Know the tide schedule before launching
• Understand how currents affect your planned route
• Plan your trip to avoid fighting strong currents on your return

Before You Head Out

File a Float Plan

Always let someone know:

• Where you’re going
• When you expect to return
• Who is with you
• What vessel you’re using
• Your cell phone number

Check Your Vessel

• Ensure all safety equipment is aboard and functioning
• Check weather and water conditions
• Verify fuel levels and engine operation
• Confirm navigation lights work if you might be out near dusk

Boating Education

Connecticut requires a Safe Boating Certificate for operating motorized vessels. Courses are available through:

• CT DEEP (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection)
• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
• Various online providers approved by the state

Alcohol and Boating Don’t Mix

Operating a vessel while impaired is both dangerous and illegal. Factors that make drinking on the water particularly hazardous include:

• Sun exposure intensifying alcohol’s effects
• Wave motion accelerating impairment
• Dehydration compounding intoxication
• Reduced coordination when it’s most needed

Connecticut’s BUI (Boating Under the Influence) laws are strictly enforced on Long Island Sound, with penalties similar to those for driving under the influence.

Emergency Response

If you encounter an emergency on the water:

1. Call 911 immediately
2. Give your location as precisely as possible
3. Describe your vessel and the nature of the emergency
4. Follow dispatcher instructions
5. If possible, signal for help using visual distress signals

Paddle Smart, Boat Safe

Madison’s beautiful shoreline offers incredible boating opportunities, but safety must always come first. By following these guidelines, using proper safety equipment, and respecting the water, you can ensure that your time on Long Island Sound remains a highlight of your summer—without becoming an emergency.

Remember: The best boaters are those who return safely to shore after every outing.

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For more boating safety information, contact Madison Hose Company #1 or visit the CT DEEP Boating Division website.