During a capsize, what safety equipment should you ensure is being worn?

• A. A life jacket is optional.
• B. A PFD (personal flotation device) should be worn.
• C. No safety equipment is necessary.
• D. A helmet is the only required gear.

Answer: (B)

During a capsize, staying afloat is the top priority, so you should be wearing a personal flotation device. The PFD provides buoyancy to keep you on the surface, even if you’re disoriented or briefly unconscious, which greatly reduces the risk of drowning and makes it easier to breathe, signal for help, or wait for rescue. A helmet can protect the head in certain activities, but it does not keep you afloat and cannot substitute for buoyancy. Saying no safety equipment is necessary ignores the immediate danger of water immersion, and claiming a helmet is the only required gear overstates its protective role. The practical, safest approach is to wear a PFD at all times when near or on the water, especially during activities where capsizes are possible.