Candlewood Lake Authority Urges Caution Around Upcoming Fireworks

DANBURY, CT -- Revelers who intend to view the Saturday fireworks show from a boat upon Candlewood Lake are being cautioned they must comply with Candlewood Lake Authority safety regulations.

The CLA Marine Patrol, in conjunction with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s Environmental Conservation Police, will have a significant presence on the lake and will be stopping all boats entering Danbury Bay for a safety inspection, which will only take a few minutes.

All boats will be required to remain north of City Island and on the western half of the Lake. Marine Patrol and EnCon Police will direct boaters to the proper locations.

All boats must demonstrate they have the proper safety equipment on board, notably sufficient and proper personal flotation devices (life vests) for each person on board and working navigation and anchor lights for the vessel. Safety checkpoints will be set up for all boats entering the Bay. All boats must also have their required lights in working order.

Any boat found not having the required safety equipment will be ordered back to shore to make the necessary repairs and will not be allowed to enter the area until they meet these safety requirements. Having your lights on and having each person hold their PFD up (or wearing it if required by law) will help keep things moving smoothly.

The area beyond the checkpoints is a temporary "no wake zone," beginning at 4 p.m.

No boats will be allowed to travel south of the safety zone into the display area beginning two hours before the event starts.

When leaving at the end of the show, all boats must exit at a "no wake speed," utilizing the eastern half of the Lake.

As always, boating emergencies should be called in to the 24 Hour Emergency Dispatch 860-424-3333.

Image via Shutterstock.