The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection reminded all boaters on Tuesday that even though the air temperatures are rising, the state’s waters still are in the mid- to upper 40s.

Boaters are urged to be aware of the risks of cold-water boating.

“With the trout season now underway, boaters and anglers are taking to the water for some fun,” DEEP Boating Division Director Eleanor Mariani said in a news release. “Recent heavy rains and snow melt have caused flood conditions, and local waters may be running faster than anticipated. It is important for boaters to check the flows and know their capabilities before heading out. At this time of year, it is more important than ever to take proper safety precautions to minimize the chances of going into the water accidently and to be prepared for immersion if you do.”

In the past 10 years, capsizing and falling overboard have been responsible for the majority of boating fatalities in Connecticut, DEEP said. Sudden immersion in cold water can lead to shock and death within minutes. Swimming generally becomes nearly impossible after 30 minutes and unless a person is wearing a life jacket, drowning is a possibility in these kinds of water temperatures, DEEP said.

DEEP recommends that anyone on the water, regardless of boat type, be prepared for cold-water immersion. Here are some cold-water boating tips:

• State law requires anyone onboard a manually propelled vessel to wear a life jacket at all times between Oct. 1 and May 31.

• Wear appropriate clothing, including a wetsuit or drysuit. Dress in layers to retain body heat and avoid wearing cotton, which stays wet and does not retain heat. Wear a hat.

• Paddle with a friend.

• Give a friend your plans. Tell someone where you are going, what boat you are taking and when you plan on returning. This is called filing a float plan.

• Attach a whistle to your life jacket. The sound of a whistle will travel farther than your voice and will attract attention. A sound-producing device also is required onboard all vessels.

• Carry a phone in a waterproof bag and/or a marine VHF radio. In coastal/tidal waters a VHF radio is the best way to call for help.

For information, visit www.ct.gov/deep/boating.