How can you prevent drowning while boating?

Wearing a properly fitted life jacket is one of the most effective ways to prevent drowning while boating. Life jackets are designed to keep a person afloat in the water, even if they are unconscious or unable to swim. By ensuring that all passengers on a boat are wearing their life jackets, you significantly increase their chances of survival in case of an accident or if someone falls overboard.

This safety measure is particularly important because boating accidents can happen suddenly, and the ability to float and stay above water can save lives. Life jackets provide buoyancy and help keep the head above water, which is crucial in emergency situations when panic can set in.

The other options do not contribute positively to safety on the water. Not wearing a life jacket increases the risk of drowning. Drinking alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Swimming frequently, while a good skill to have, does not prevent drowning and doesn’t address the specific risk factors associated with being in or around a boat.