Who is required to wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)?

The requirement for wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is particularly emphasized for children under the age of 12 due to their heightened risk in aquatic environments. Most states mandate that children in this age group must wear a PFD while on a moving boat. This regulation is grounded in safety concerns, as young children may not possess the swimming skills or resilience necessary to handle unexpected situations in the water.

Although boaters of all ages are encouraged to wear PFDs for safety reasons, the law specifically focuses on protecting younger, more vulnerable individuals. Adults over 18 may not face the same legal requirement, and while all boaters should consider wearing a PFD, the law is tailored towards minimizing risk for those most at risk, which in this case is children under 12. This focus on youth safety reflects broader public safety principles aimed at preventing drowning and enhancing safety on the water.