What is the primary purpose of wearing a life jacket?

The primary purpose of wearing a life jacket is to provide buoyancy and keep the wearer afloat in the water. Life jackets are designed to assist individuals in staying afloat, which is critical in preventing drowning, especially in emergency situations or when a person inadvertently falls overboard. They are constructed with materials that create buoyancy and help support the individual's weight in water, ensuring that their mouth and nose remain above the surface, even if they are unconscious or unable to swim.

While keeping the wearer warm in cold water, protecting from sun exposure, and signaling for help are beneficial aspects associated with boating safety, they are secondary to the main function of a life jacket. The essential role of a life jacket is to enhance survival by increasing the chances of remaining afloat until rescue or aid can be received. This reinforces the importance of proper life jacket use as a fundamental safety measure while on the water.