October 04, 2023| Safety
By: Holly Odgers
As Lake Hopatcong is a resource enjoyed year-round, we wanted to make sure all are aware of a new safety regulation scheduled to be enforced by the State of New Jersey beginning next month.
Starting November 1, a new regulation in New Jersey mandates that all recreational vessels under 26 feet, including rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, must have every person on board wear a securely fastened US Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device (PFD) when the vessel is in motion. This requirement is in effect until May 1st.
The regulation aims to prevent hypothermia-related deaths and reduce the risks faced by first responders during winter water rescue operations. Exceptions are made for individuals inside cabin vessels. Read more from the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau HERE.
13:82-1.4 Personal flotation devices
(f) No owner or operator of a recreational vessel less than 26 feet, including rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards shall permit its operation between November 1st and May 1st, unless each person on board such vessel is wearing a securely fastened United States Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device of an appropriate size while such vessel is underway. A person inside the cabin of a cabin vessel shall be exempt from this requirement.
