At what distance from the shore should people be wearing a PFD?

• A. 0-5 ft
• B. 15-25 ft
• C. 25-50 ft
• D. 50-100 ft

Answer: (B)

Wearing a PFD in this context is about having flotation ready in a zone where you’re close enough to land to be reachable, but far enough out that a slip or a change in conditions could carry you away from shore before help arrives. About 15 to 25 feet from shore represents that transitional area: you’re not in the immediate safety of the shore, yet you’re not so far out that you’d have little chance to swim back with a PFD. In that band, having the PFD on before any slip or incident ensures you stay afloat instantly, conserving energy and making you easier to locate for rescuers. Near the shore (0–5 feet), the immediacy of land and footing reduces some risk, while farther out (25–50, 50–100 feet) the risk increases and flotation becomes even more critical; however, the guideline highlighted here emphasizes the 15–25-foot zone as the point to be equipped so you’re protected during that vulnerable transition.