Why is wearing a life jacket correctly important?

Wearing a life jacket correctly is critical because it ensures proper buoyancy and safety. A life jacket is designed to keep a person afloat in water, and if it is not worn properly, it may not function as intended, increasing the risk of drowning. When a life jacket fits correctly and is secured properly, it provides essential support by keeping the wearer's head above water and allowing for easier breathing. This becomes especially vital in emergency situations where quick response and survival chances are paramount.

In comparison, other reasons provided here—such as improving speed while sailing, an aesthetic appeal, or being a requirement only during inspections—do not address the primary function of a life jacket, which is to save lives by providing flotation and reducing the risk of hypothermia and other water-related dangers. The main focus should always be on the life-saving attributes of wearing a life jacket correctly.