What must boaters do to ensure their safety regarding PFDs?

To ensure safety while boating, it is critical that people under 10 years old wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) at all times. This requirement is based on the fact that children are particularly vulnerable in the water, and wearing a PFD significantly increases their chances of survival in an emergency situation. This rule emphasizes the importance of proactive safety measures rather than reactive measures taken only during dangerous conditions. By making it mandatory for young children to wear PFDs at all times, the regulations aim to prevent accidents before they happen, ensuring that children are protected whether they are moving around the boat, swimming, or if an unexpected event occurs.

The other options do not promote a comprehensive safety approach. Waiting for dangerous conditions to wear PFDs compromises safety during calm waters, and storing PFDs away is not advisable because they wouldn’t be accessible if a situation arises. Lastly, limiting PFD usage only during fishing neglects the fact that various circumstances can lead to emergencies at any time while on the water.