Most boating accidents involve falls overboard, capsizing, or skiing. A properly fitted and correctly used PFD can save your life. Recent statistics reveal that over 80 percent of boating related deaths resulted from drowning. These boaters probably would have lived if they had been wearing a PFD.

Children, the elderly, and non-swimmers should always wear their life jackets while the boat is underway. In rough water it's recommended that all persons wear their PFDs. Persons water skiing should always wear PFDs.

When boating in cold water, PFDs should be worn at all times. Cold water can numb the extremities and limit reflexes almost immediately. Should you be plunged into cold water, you may not have the opportunity or the ability to put on a PFD.

Each passenger on board should know where the PFDs are located and should be sure their wearable device fits properly. It's a good idea to hold a practice emergency drill on the proper use of PFDs at least once a year. Practice swimming and floating while wearing a PFD. Try putting one on while in the water.

Families should mark each person's device with their name and stow it with the name facing up in an accessible, well-ventilated area out of the sun. Children's PFDs should be checked periodically for proper fit.

Remember that a PFD is considered an aid; it should not be considered a substitute for good swimming ability.