What will most reduce the chances of fatalities when on or around the water?

Wearing a properly fitted life jacket at all times significantly enhances safety on the water and effectively reduces the likelihood of fatalities. Life jackets are specifically designed to keep individuals afloat in the event of an accident or if they find themselves in the water unexpectedly. Their buoyancy helps prevent drowning, a leading cause of fatalities in boating incidents.

While carrying a floatation device is also important, it offers less safety if the device is not worn. In emergencies, individuals may find it challenging to put on a floatation device when needed, making immediate accessibility crucial. Swimming lessons certainly contribute to safety by equipping individuals with the skills to handle themselves in the water, but they do not provide the passive safety that a life jacket offers when someone is incapacitated or in distress.

Operating boats during daylight can improve visibility and reduce accidents, but it does not directly prevent drowning. When faced with unexpected circumstances, wearing a life jacket is the most effective way to enhance safety in aquatic environments, making it the best choice for reducing fatal outcomes.