New Jersey Boating Certification Practice Test

What should you have on board for every person on a boat?

1. A whistle

2. A life jacket

3. A fire extinguisher

4. A first aid kit

The correct answer is: A life jacket

Having a life jacket on board for every person on a boat is essential for safety and is often mandated by law. Life jackets are crucial because they provide buoyancy and help keep individuals afloat in the event of an accident, such as capsizing or falling overboard. Wearing a life jacket significantly increases the chances of survival, especially in emergencies where quick response times are vital. While other items, such as whistles, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits, are important for various safety and emergency situations, they do not directly contribute to an individual's immediate safety while on the water in the same way that life jackets do. A life jacket ensures that each person has the means to stay above water, which is the first priority in boating safety.