NY Boating laws, Boating Safety, and Water Safety

It is important for both boat operators and passengers to be aware of the requirements for a boat operator’s license. Never get into a boat with a boat operator who is not certified if certification is required.

Never operate or get into a boat that exceeds a boat’s capacity. If the capacity plate is not clearly visible, ask the operator to see the plate and make sure the boat is not over the listed capacity.

When boating, always carry a Coast Guard approved radio, and sound and beacon/light devices to utilize in an emergency.

Always give right of way to any boat already utilizing a boat ramp or launch sight.

When boating alone, be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Write a formal plan if possible.

Always wear a life jacket, no matter how calm the water may seem. An accident can happen in seconds, and you may not have time to put on a life jacket in that split second. Many a person has had a medical emergency causing them to capsize a small craft. A life jacket may be needed to save your life.

Never use alcohol or drugs while boating or swimming. A cold beer might sound like fun on a hot summer day, but it can be dangerous when you are boating or swimming. Wait until after you are finished boating or swimming to enjoy any alcohol.

Never go boating in cold water without the proper cold water submersion gear. The water may look inviting for an early spring boating trip, but a person can drown in seconds in cold water.

Never swim in water you are unfamiliar with or with people who also do not know that body of water. Shallow river / lake / pond banks can drop off suddenly, leaving you without the ability to touch bottom. Sadly, far too many have drowned in Croton thinking they were wading up to their knees or waist, only to take one more step and find themselves over their heads.

The Croton River, while beautiful and inviting, can have a particularly strong current, and it is also impacted by the tide further down river. Respect the power of water and do not swim or boat in water that might be beyond your swimming or boating abilities and experience. Boats can easily capsize in the currents. Rocks and trees lie below the surface of the river and can cause lethal injuries to those being carried away by the current. Sadly, too many people have misjudged the power of the river and have lost their lives.

Bring a cell phone when boating or swimming and if someone appears to be in trouble, call for help immediately. Do not wait to see if the person “comes up” further down river. Do not be afraid to call immediately. Better the person is found completely fine a bit down river by the rescue crew than to waste precious seconds.

Never swim alone.

Be aware of wildlife in our area. We have various snakes, some poisonous, some not, that inhabit the water and water banks. Be aware and be cautious. Give snakes a wide birth. Do not move closer to “have a look.”  Back away gently but without hesitation. If in the very rare instance that you are bitten by a snake, immediately call 911.   

Additional wildlife along the riverbanks includes racoons, coyotes, fox, weasels, deer, and beavers. Do not approach these animals.