NYers New Law Boating
09-01-2009 | 11:41 AM
#1
Thread Starter
Boone & Crockett
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 19,137
Likes: 0
NYers New Law Boating
NY requires life jackets for cold weather boating
ALBANY -- New York has become the first state to require life jackets for everyone in all small pleasure craft during the six coldest months of the year, when capsized boaters drown faster in chilly water.
Starting Nov. 1, kayakers, canoeists and all those aboard motorboats under 21 feet must wear Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices while on lakes, the ocean or other waterways.
The rule remains in effect through May 1. Violators will face fines ranging from $100 to $250.
Similar measures apply to canoes and kayaks in Massachusetts and to all manually propelled vessels, including rowboats, in Connecticut.
Falling into cold water can trigger shock, disorientation or gasping and inhaling water. Immersion can lead to hypothermia and passing out.
ALBANY -- New York has become the first state to require life jackets for everyone in all small pleasure craft during the six coldest months of the year, when capsized boaters drown faster in chilly water.
Starting Nov. 1, kayakers, canoeists and all those aboard motorboats under 21 feet must wear Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices while on lakes, the ocean or other waterways.
The rule remains in effect through May 1. Violators will face fines ranging from $100 to $250.
Similar measures apply to canoes and kayaks in Massachusetts and to all manually propelled vessels, including rowboats, in Connecticut.
Falling into cold water can trigger shock, disorientation or gasping and inhaling water. Immersion can lead to hypothermia and passing out.
09-01-2009 | 04:03 PM
#4
Nontypical Buck
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,676
Likes: 0
From: elmira ny
I think so also. I've always said, when I'm canoeing across lakes in the Adirondacks in November, at least the life jack will enable me to have a decent burial, 'cuz survival chances in 34-36 degree water isn't all that great !
09-01-2009 | 04:22 PM
#5
Spike
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
From: NH, USA
I feel sooooo much safer now. If only people had common sense 
.
09-02-2009 | 05:36 AM
#6
Nontypical Buck
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,305
Likes: 0
From: Adirondacks
Certainly a good idea to wear one in cold weather but I don't like the idea of the Government telling me what I have to do.Does this law say everyone must wear one at all times or that there must be one for each on board?
09-02-2009 | 06:32 AM
#7
Thread Starter
Boone & Crockett
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 19,137
Likes: 0
Starting Nov. 1, kayakers, canoeists and all those aboard motorboats under 21 feet must wear Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices while on lakes, the ocean or other waterways.
Think I'm going to buy a couple of those ones that inflate when you need them to. I spend a lot of time fishing for walleye in the cold and the life vests are just darn uncomfortable, especially when your anchored casting.
Think I'm going to buy a couple of those ones that inflate when you need them to. I spend a lot of time fishing for walleye in the cold and the life vests are just darn uncomfortable, especially when your anchored casting.
09-02-2009 | 07:43 AM
#8
Nontypical Buck
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 4,970
Likes: 0
From: Clermont Florida U.S.
Personally, I'm not for the goobermint enacting all of these "protective" type laws. How ironic is it tho that NY does not (that I'm aware of) mandate hunter orange during firearms season? They do recommend it tho. 
09-02-2009 | 12:59 PM
#9
Spike
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
From: NH, USA