What is the purpose of wearing a personal flotation device (PFD)?

Wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) is primarily meant to provide buoyancy in the water, ensuring that a person can stay afloat in case of an emergency. The key function of a PFD is to assist individuals who may find themselves in situations where they cannot swim or are injured, allowing them to remain on the surface until help arrives.

While a PFD can offer some warmth in cold water, that is not its main purpose. Its primary design is to aid flotation rather than to reduce swells or assist swimming, which are not factors intrinsically related to the function of a PFD. In essence, a PFD serves as a crucial safety tool for any boaters or water enthusiasts, emphasizing the importance of wearing one whenever on or near water.