What is a key reason for wearing a life jacket while boating?

Wearing a life jacket significantly enhances safety while boating because it provides buoyancy, which is crucial in case of an accident. The primary purpose of a life jacket is to keep an individual afloat if they fall into the water, thus reducing the risk of drowning. In the unfortunate event of capsizing or falling overboard, a life jacket helps ensure the wearer can remain above water until help arrives.

While it's true that life jackets may be mandatory for certain vessels or situations, safety and buoyancy are the primary reasons they are emphasized in boating education. Although life jackets can also provide warmth in cold conditions and protect against sun exposure, their essential function is to enhance safety by allowing individuals to stay afloat and be more visible, which can be life-saving in emergencies.