Important Candlewood Lake Safety Message

With warmer weather in the forecast, visitors and area residents may be planning to spend time on the waters of Candlewood Lake. Due to last week’s storm which caused extensive damage to the trees, docks and properties surrounding areas on Candlewood Lake, the Candlewood Lake Authority, FirstLight Power Resources and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) urge anyone planning to recreate on Candlewood Lake to use extra caution.

The Candlewood Lake Authority has been working to remove debris and hazards, however new and unknown submerged hazards such as logs, branches, boards or other debris may be pushed by wind or waves and float into boating lanes, creating a potentially hazardous situation for boaters, skiers and others recreating on Candlewood Lake. Docks and other structures which were damaged from the storm may move or break free from their current location and damaged trees along the shoreline may present a hazard.

Additionally, the CT DEEP has closed Squantz Pond State Park, including the boat launches on Squantz Pond and the Squantz Cove Launch on Candlewood Lake, through Memorial Day. The State launch at Lattin’s Cove is scheduled to be open. The Town of New Fairfield has closed New Fairfield Town Park and boat launch through Memorial Day.

If you spot a hazard on Candlewood Lake please call the CT DEEP 24-hour emergency dispatch number at 860-424-3333.