During water rescue operations, a personal flotation device should be worn by anyone within ________ of the water.

• A. 5 ft (1.5 m)
• B. 10 ft (3 m)
• C. 20 ft (6 m)
• D. 30 ft (9 m)

Answer: (B)

Being near water means a slip or unexpected immersion can happen quickly, so having flotation ready makes a big difference in staying afloat and awaiting rescue. The guideline is to wear a personal flotation device within 10 ft (3 m) of the water. This distance is close enough that if you fall in, you already have buoyancy, which helps keep your head above water and reduces the risk of drowning while help arrives or you are pulled to safety. It also supports faster, safer responses for rescuers and keeps fatigue and exposure lower in cold or moving water.

Choosing a shorter distance would still be safer but isn’t the standard practice, while a much larger distance would leave you unprotected for too long if immersion occurs.