What is a primary purpose of using life jackets on a boat?

Using life jackets on a boat is primarily intended to ensure the flotation of individuals in emergencies. Life jackets are designed to keep a person afloat in water, which is crucial during situations such as capsizing or falling overboard. Their primary function is to provide buoyancy and increase the chances of survival by preventing drowning, allowing individuals to remain afloat until rescue or assistance arrives.

While keeping passengers warm can be a secondary benefit of certain types of life jackets designed for cold water use, the main purpose is their life-saving capability. Additionally, reducing the number of people on board does not pertain to the function of life jackets; rather, it may relate to safety or legal conditions concerning vessel capacity. Although compliance with regulations is important, the primary goal of life jackets remains to protect lives by providing flotation support.