What does an inflatable life jacket require to meet federal carriage requirements?

An inflatable life jacket must be worn at all times to meet federal carriage requirements. This is because inflatable life jackets rely on being properly inflated to provide buoyancy and ensure the safety of the wearer. When not worn, there is a risk that the life jacket may not function correctly during an emergency, as it will not automatically inflate unless activated. Wearing the life jacket ensures it is readily available for use at any time, significantly increasing the chances of survival in the event of accidental immersion in water.

The other answer choices reflect practices that do not align with the safety standards required for inflatable life jackets, as they imply that the jacket could be ineffective or unavailable during critical moments.