What is the purpose of a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while boating?

A Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is primarily designed to keep a person afloat in water, especially during emergencies. In the event of an accident, capsize, or someone falling overboard, the PFD provides essential buoyancy, helping the wearer to stay above the water's surface and increases their chances of survival until rescue.

While it's true that a PFD might offer some warmth and comfort in cold weather, that is not its main purpose. Similarly, it does not directly enhance swimming capability; rather, it plays a critical role in safety by ensuring that individuals who may not be strong swimmers can remain afloat. Signaling for help is also a separate function, typically requiring other devices like whistles or flares rather than a PFD. Thus, the main and most important function of a PFD is to help keep the person afloat in case of emergency.