What must all individuals on board a PWC wear?

All individuals on board a Personal Watercraft (PWC) are required to wear a Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device (PFD). This regulation is in place to ensure safety, as PWC riders are at a greater risk of falling into the water at high speeds, especially when making sharp turns or quick maneuvers. A PFD provides critical buoyancy and helps keep a person afloat, which is essential for their safety in the event of a fall.

The requirement includes various types of PFDs that meet specific criteria set by safety standards. Type I PFDs are designed for maximum buoyancy and are ideal for rough water conditions, whereas Type II and III are more comfortable and commonly used for recreational boating. Type V PFDs are specially designed for specific activities and situations but must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

While a helmet can provide head protection, it is not mandated for PWC operation. A seatbelt is irrelevant, as PWCs do not have seatbelts like cars. It's also essential to note that simply wearing a life jacket without the compliance of the PFD types listed does not satisfy legal requirements for safety on a PWC. Each of these alternatives fails to address the specific