When must a boater wear a life jacket?

A boater must wear a life jacket when operating personal watercraft or during rough water conditions due to safety regulations and best practices designed to prevent drowning accidents. Personal watercraft, like jet skis, are particularly prone to accidents and do not provide the same level of stability as larger boats, making life jackets essential for ensuring the safety of the operator and passengers. Similarly, rough water can create challenging conditions that increase the risk of capsizing or falling overboard, and wearing a life jacket becomes crucial in these scenarios to provide extra buoyancy and support for the individual.

While other options might suggest certain circumstances for wearing a life jacket, they do not reflect the legal requirements or fundamental safety principles that guide boating practices. It's imperative for all boaters, especially in potentially hazardous situations, to prioritize safety and wear life jackets accordingly.