What is the primary purpose of wearing a life jacket while boating?

The primary purpose of wearing a life jacket while boating is to provide buoyancy and prevent drowning. Life jackets are designed to keep a person afloat in the water, helping to ensure that they stay above the surface even if they are incapacitated or unable to swim. This buoyancy is crucial in emergency situations, as it significantly increases the chances of survival until help arrives.

While keeping warm in cold water, optimizing performance, and allowing easy movement are considerations for some water activities, they are not the main objective of wearing a life jacket. The fundamental function is to enhance safety by preventing accidental drowning, making it essential equipment for anyone participating in boating or water sports.