What must every person aboard a personal watercraft wear in Florida?

In Florida, it is required that every person aboard a personal watercraft must wear a personal flotation device, commonly known as a life jacket. This regulation is in place to enhance safety and reduce the risk of drowning in the event of an accident or an unexpected fall into the water. Personal flotation devices are specifically designed to keep individuals afloat, providing critical buoyancy and ensuring that they stay safe while on the water.

While options such as wearing a helmet, a life jacket with reflective strips, or a wetsuit can provide additional safety in certain contexts, the crucial requirement under Florida law is the personal flotation device. The law focuses on ensuring that all occupants of a personal watercraft have the primary means of remaining buoyant and protected while engaging in activities that can pose risks of capsizing or falling into the water.