What is the main function of a life jacket?

The main function of a life jacket is to prevent drowning. Life jackets are designed to provide buoyancy in water, which helps keep the wearer afloat. This is particularly crucial in emergency situations where a person may find themselves in the water unexpectedly. By ensuring that a person remains on the surface, life jackets greatly reduce the risk of drowning, giving them a better chance to remain safe until help arrives or until they can swim to shore.

While life jackets can offer some warmth and are useful in various water conditions, their primary purpose is to save lives by ensuring that individuals stay afloat in the case of an accident or capsize. Other options may have secondary benefits related to safety and comfort, but the prevention of drowning is the essential and most critical function of life jackets.