What is one of the primary functions of a PFD?

One of the primary functions of a personal flotation device (PFD) is to keep a person afloat in case of an emergency. This is crucial for safety when boating or participating in water activities. PFDs are designed to provide buoyancy, enabling individuals to stay above water, reducing the risk of drowning. In emergencies such as capsizing or falling overboard, the ability of a PFD to keep a person afloat can make a significant difference in survival chances.

While keeping a person warm may be secondary in certain types of PFDs, such as those made from insulated materials, the primary safety function remains buoyancy. Additionally, visibility is important, but it is not the main purpose of a PFD; it is merely a beneficial feature that some PFDs may offer to help others spot a person in the water. Enhancing swimming speed is not a function of PFDs at all, as they are not designed for this purpose. The focus of a PFD is ensuring that individuals can stay afloat and have a better chance of being rescued in water situations.