Connecticut Safe Boating Practice Test

In which type of waters is a Type II life jacket most effective?

1. Open and rough waters

2. Calm, inland waters with good rescue chances

3. Any waters, especially remote

4. Not wearable devices for emergency situations

The correct answer is: Calm, inland waters with good rescue chances

A Type II life jacket is designed primarily for use in calm, inland waters. Its intended purpose is to provide flotation and to turn an unconscious person face up in the water. This makes it particularly effective in environments where the likelihood of rescue is high, such as lakes, rivers, or other sheltered areas. In scenarios where quick assistance is available, a Type II life jacket serves well to keep the wearer safer until help arrives. The design of Type II jackets typically offers less buoyancy than Type I jackets, which are more suitable for open or rough waters where conditions can be unpredictable, and where there is a greater need for the jacket to support a person who may not be able to position themselves face up. The other choices focus on situations or settings where a Type II jacket would not be as appropriate or effective, reinforcing that its best use is within calm, accessible waters.