Connecticut Safe Boating Practice Test

What is the recommended action for a personal flotation device according to state law for children under twelve?

1. They must wear it at all times

2. They must hold it on their lap

3. It should be stored below deck

4. They must wear it only while on the dock

The correct answer is: They must wear it at all times

According to Connecticut state law, children under twelve years old are required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on a recreational vessel. This is a crucial safety regulation designed to ensure that children are protected in case of an accident, such as capsizing or falling overboard. By mandating the continuous use of PFDs, the law aims to reduce the risk of drowning among younger boaters, who are particularly vulnerable due to their size and swimming ability. This requirement emphasizes the importance of proactive safety measures while engaging in boating activities. In contrast, other options, such as holding the device on their lap, storing it below deck, or wearing it only on the dock, do not provide effective safety assurance. Holding a flotation device is not helpful in an emergency, and storage below deck means the child would not have immediate access to it. Similarly, only requiring PFDs on the dock does not address the potential dangers that can occur once the vessel is underway. Therefore, the law's focus on constant usage underscores the importance of keeping children safe while they are on the water.