Why is it important to wear a life jacket while fishing from a boat?

Wearing a life jacket while fishing from a boat is crucial because life jackets save lives in the event of accidents and significantly reduce the risk of drowning. Accidents can happen unexpectedly on the water, whether due to capsizing, falling overboard, or other unforeseen circumstances. A life jacket provides buoyancy, keeping the wearer afloat until help arrives or until they can swim to safety.

Even for experienced boaters, conditions on the water can change rapidly, such as shifts in weather or unforeseen hazards. The presence of a properly fitted and secured life jacket increases the chances of survival, making it an essential safety measure every time one goes fishing from a boat. While other factors, such as legal requirements and thermal protection, can contribute to safety, the primary role of a life jacket is to provide flotation and enhance survival in critical situations.